For a night, Yelp London was feeling wicked.
The classic West End musical was celebrating its 7th year in London (and almost 3,000th show) and they invited some of
the best tastemakers in London to a behind-the-scenes tour full of surprises
guests, sweets, drinks and one of the best shows in the city.
“The Wizard must have heard
my pleas, because a night out visiting and viewing Wicked was at the top of my
wish list,” Sean O sang. “Everything
about Something WICKED This Way Comes with Yelp was joyous. And getting to meet
so many new Yelpers outside the theatre was just the beginning."
Yelpers gathered outside
the main entrance of the building, only to be lead through
the stage door and right onto the stage. There, waiting for the group, was
Louise Dearman, who plays Elpahaba, and Gina Beck, who plays Glinda in the
show.
“We got to meet the two
actresses playing the witches, who seemed plenty nice” Jihn Shyang Y told us. “It
was quite a sight to see them transformed into their respective characters
later on in the show. They were almost unrecognisable.”
The two talked to us about
their roles in the show and answered a few questions before running off to get
ready for the performance (and getting “greened up” for one of them). Although they were both kind
of enough to tweet us after the show was over (thanks Gina and Lou!)
Yelpers were then taken on
a backstage tour to see the workings of the stage, items and props. “The
best part was going through the costumes, because you can really see all the
detail, colour, and intricate / quirky designs that go into everything,
especially their hats and shoes!” Becky H wrote. “I secretly wanted to try on
one of their bubble dresses, but didn't want to get kicked out.”
After the tour, the group
was escorted to the private Ambassador’s Lounge filled with champagne, Wicked cupcakes
and treats from Choccywoccydoodah. “I was really excited about the show, so I
wasn't expecting a back stage tour…and bubbles…and cake…and amazing
chocolate…and free drinks!” Josy A exclaimed. “They treated us to prosecco, cupcakes, chocolates and
slabs of toffee popcorn covered in creamy milk chocolate. Sugar-rush-joy!”
Finally, the yelpers got the chance to see Wicked, one of London’s most beloved shows, from fantastic seats. Everyone walked off nearly singing, and it was easy to see why.
“This is by far, the best
Yelp London event, I have EVER attended. I wish I could give more stars!” Teresa C wrote. “Let me start
by saying how AMAZING this night was!!! Many Yelpers in attendance has heard me
mention the number of times I have seen the show (never in London though), so
for me to be able to walk on a Wicked stage, meet the ladies who play Elphaba
and Glinda, see the props and costumes and even touch the Glinda's glitter
gown, was out of this world. I still
can't believe I was fortunate enough to be selected to attend. This was an
unbelievable experience.”
But don’t just take our word for it. You can read all the reviews right here as well as check out all the pics by Natalya Spicker here on the Official Yelp Flickr.
Until next time,
Alex S, Yelp London Community Director
