The West End's 'Wicked' has enchanted audiences ever since its 2006 London debut.

This theatrical phenomenon has changed the way of musicals. 

With music and lyrics written by Stephen Schwartz and based on the book by Winnie Holzman, it provides an origin story for the Wicked Witch of the West suggesting that perhaps she is not as 'Wicked' as she seems. 

The musical opens with an intense number called "No One Mourns the Wicked", inviting the audience into a new world and foreshadowing the dramatic events that will unfold. 

The story itself centres around two friends, Elphaba, a girl who is born with green skin and is struggling to accept herself for who she is, and Galinda (or Glinda as she is later known as) a popular and beautiful young woman who believes everyone adores her. 

As they start to navigate their way through school (Shiz University) the hatred that they had for one another starts to form into friendship, providing an emotional journey for the audience.

It is not just the audience who are on an emotional journey, but the characters themselves are too. 

Elphaba's journey is one of resilience and self discovery, as she learns to embrace the way she looks and to stand up for what she believes in by fighting against injustices. 

Glinda's personal journey highlights the cost of popularity and societal approval as she realises that her desire to be liked by everyone has caused more problems for her than it solved. 

She learns, once she becomes friends with Elphaba, that she would do anything for her friends. 

The musical performances of 'Wicked' are one of its greatest assets. 

For example, 'Defying Gravity' is the show's most well known number, and for a good reason too. 

It highlights Elphaba's growth as a person and how she is not afraid to stand up for herself anymore. 

With this song ending Act 1 of the musical, it leaves the audience breathless and in awe of the impeccable vocals, eager and ready for Act 2 which equally has some brilliant numbers. 

As well as musically, 'Wicked' is very visually appealing. 

The set design captures the idea that 'Oz' is not all that it is said to be, with beautiful backdrops, crazy costumes and intense lighting effects that enhance the mood of each scene. 

The costumes worn by each character displays their personalities clearly. 

Elphaba's iconic black attire displays how she wishes not to be seen despite having a spotlight on her for most of her time at Shiz University for her green skin. 

Whereas Glinda wears eccentric outfits, often wearing bright vibrant pinks, blue and yellows clearly wanting to draw attention to herself- as if her personality didn't do that already.

Ultimately, 'Wicked' is a deeply moving production that appeals to all ages with its moving themes, memorable music and compelling performances.

It truly does not matter who is playing each part because the script and music is so incredible it can be performed in many different ways. 

The West End staging of  'Wicked' delivers a brilliant experience that resonates as much today as it did when it first premiered. 

It challenges societal norms and makes the audience question the narratives that we have been told, as well as inspiring us to embrace our unique qualities and accept who we are as a person. 

Whether you've been a fan since 2006 or just someone who's interested in the world of Oz, 'Wicked' promises an experience that's worth a visit.