Wicked’s Return to Rochester: A Look at the Enduring Power of Blockbuster Musicals
The return of Wicked to Rochester’s West Herr Auditorium Theatre marks more than just a local theatrical event. It’s a reflection of the continued strength of large-scale musical productions and the evolving relationship between performers and their craft. After a nine-year absence, the display is captivating audiences once again, running through March 1st.
The Art of Transformation: Behind the Scenes with Elphaba
A fascinating aspect of Wicked’s production is the meticulous process of transforming actor Jesse Davidson into the iconic character of Elphaba. The application of the signature green makeup, overseen by production makeup supervisor Tishonna Ferguson, is a surprisingly calming experience for Davidson. It’s a multi-stage process, beginning with a watercolor-like base layer and building with a green cream foundation. Davidson described the brushes as “super soft,” a detail that highlights the care and artistry involved in theatrical makeup.
More Than Just Makeup: The Personal Connection to Performance
For Davidson, the role of Elphaba isn’t simply a professional undertaking; it’s deeply personal. She recounted how seeing a matinee performance as a child sparked her passion for theatre. This illustrates a growing trend of performers connecting with roles on a profound level, drawing on personal experiences to enrich their interpretations.
The Broadway Touring Model: Reaching Wider Audiences
The success of Wicked’s national tour demonstrates the enduring viability of the Broadway touring model. Productions like Wicked bring high-quality theatrical experiences to cities across the country, expanding access to the arts. The tour welcomed new principal cast members, including Davidson and Zoe Jensen, on May 20, 2025, in Salt Lake City, showcasing the dynamic nature of these productions.
Rochester Embraces the Ozian Atmosphere
Rochester is fully embracing the return of Wicked, with downtown buildings encouraged to display green lighting throughout the show’s run. West Herr patrons can even enjoy themed drinks, like the “Glinda” and “Elphaba,” adding to the immersive experience. This level of community engagement highlights the cultural impact of major theatrical productions.
The Enduring Appeal of Wicked: A Two-Decade Phenomenon
Wicked, currently the fourth longest-running show in Broadway history, has captivated audiences for over two decades. Its enduring appeal lies in its unique perspective on the story of Oz, exploring themes of friendship, prejudice, and acceptance. The show’s ability to resonate with audiences of all ages is a testament to its timeless quality.
The Future of Theatrical Makeup
The detailed makeup process for Elphaba, as described by Davidson and Ferguson, hints at potential future trends in theatrical makeup. Expect to see continued innovation in makeup formulations, focusing on comfort and ease of application. The use of watercolor-like bases and layering techniques may become more prevalent, allowing for greater control and nuance in character creation.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take to apply Elphaba’s makeup?
A: Approximately half an hour.
Q: Where is Wicked playing in Rochester?
A: West Herr Auditorium Theatre.
Q: When does the Rochester run of Wicked end?
A: March 1st.
Q: Who currently stars as Elphaba in the national tour?
A: Jesse Davidson.
Q: Who currently stars as Glinda in the national tour?
A: Zoe Jensen.
Did you understand? Wicked looks at the story of Oz from a different perspective, focusing on the events before Dorothy’s arrival.
Pro Tip: Check the RBTL website (https://rbtl.org/events/wicked/) for ticket availability and showtimes.
Enjoyed this article? Explore more theatre news and reviews on our site. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on Wicked in the comments below!
