Kerry Ellis truly is the queen of the West End and when it was announced that she would return to my favourite show, Wicked for a limited three month run, I knew I had to book tickets. I've seen Wicked eight times, four of which were with Kerry playing the lead character of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba. I've always found Kerry's stage presence, timing and subtlety unrivalled - then there's the voice. No other West End Star can match her exceptional vocal abilities.
I decided to book tickets for Kerry's final Wicked performance and wasn't disappointed. From the moment she stepped on stage until the final bow the atmosphere was electric. Never before have I been to a theatrical production in which the leading lady held the audience in such a way before. The fantastic riffs in all of the very famous songs were greeted with cheers and whoops throughout. The chemistry between the characters was astounding and the lovely little change of script to allow "for the first time" to be substituted with "for the last time, I feel Wicked" was such a nice touch. "Defying Gravity" made me cry and we all felt that "For Good" had real meaning.
Congratulations Kerry. I will very much look forward to your next adventure.
By Nicky Sweetland