When Utah loves a musical, it really loves it. That much was clear when the Broadway smash Wicked made its first stop here as a touring production in 2009, and again during a 2012 return engagement. Performances quickly sold out; audience members took photos with the stage’s impressive dragon setpiece. It wasn’t just a theatrical production; for many of those who attended, it was an event. That event is back in Utah, with the magical show adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel by Winnie Holzman (book) and Stephen Schwartz (songs) returning to the freshly refurbished Capitol Theatre. Veteran fans and newcomers alike can share the story of two witches-in-training in the land of Oz—the spoiled, beautiful Galinda, and the scary-looking, introverted Elphaba—who become unlikely friends during their school days. But as often happens with friends, things come between them—perhaps a man, perhaps the way Oz’s talking animals are being treated. And there can be more than meets the eye behind why someone becomes known as “wicked.” The spectacular, colorful production is a delight for younger viewers, and the grand themes of love, loss and friendship provide storytelling satisfaction to all ages. Above all, perhaps, there’s the soundtrack of instant-classic songs. From “The Wizard and I” to “I’m Not That Girl” to “Popular,” they’re a combination of earworm catchiness and show-stopping energy. And when Elphaba floats above the stage for the first-act closer “Defying Gravity,” it’s easy to understand why Wicked can make an entire audience feel like it’s soaring, too. (Scott Renshaw, City Weekly)