Get ready to defy gravity: Wicked set to enchant Australian audiences in 2023

Aussie theatre-goers, rejoice! The emerald-hued magic of Wicked, one of the most beloved and successful musicals of all time, is set to sweep across Australia in 2023. With its captivating story, unforgettable music, and dazzling production, Wicked will surely have audiences spellbound, leaving them with an experience they will never forget. The 2023 Australian production of Wicked is being produced by acclaimed Australian musical theatre producer John Frost who recently announced the leading cast in Sydney.

 

 

John Frost is a highly respected and successful Australian musical theatre producer. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been instrumental in bringing numerous acclaimed Broadway and West End productions to Australian stages. Frost is the co-owner and operator of The Gordon Frost Organisation (GFO), which is responsible for producing and presenting a wide range of theatrical works in Australia.

His commitment to quality productions and support for local talent has earned him a prominent place in the Australian theatre industry. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, John Frost was awarded the Centenary Medal in 2001 and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2014.

The Untold Tale of the Witches of Oz

Based on Gregory Maguire’s best-selling novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the musical dives deep into the untold story of the witches of Oz, long before Dorothy and Toto entered the picture. Wicked unfolds the complex relationship between Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch, as they navigate friendship, rivalry, and love in a world where nothing is quite as it seems.

A Musical Sensation

With music and lyrics by the talented Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, Wicked has garnered numerous accolades since its Broadway debut in 2003. The show has captured the hearts of millions worldwide with its stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and a heartwarming story of acceptance and empowerment.

Australian audiences can expect to be mesmerized by iconic songs such as Defying Gravity, Popular, and For Good, which have become anthems for a whole generation of theatre enthusiasts. The show’s astounding success and longevity are a testament to its universal appeal and the timeless themes it explores.

A Spellbinding Production

The Australian production of Wicked promises to be a visual feast, transporting audiences to the magical world of Oz. From the awe-inspiring sets and costumes to the gravity-defying special effects, the show is a true spectacle that will leave you breathless. Expect to be fully immersed in this enchanting tale as the talented cast brings these iconic characters to life, performing the show’s powerful and uplifting score.

The Impact on Australian Theatre

The arrival of Wicked in Australia signifies a major milestone for the local theatre scene, bringing a much-needed boost to the industry after a challenging few years. The show’s widespread appeal is expected to draw a diverse range of theatre-goers, from seasoned fans to first-timers. This renewed excitement around live theatre will not only benefit Wicked but also the many other productions and artists that make up Australia’s vibrant performing arts community.

Sheridan Adams (Elphaba)

Sheridan holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) from the prestigious Victorian College of the Arts. During her time at the college, she took on the role of Charlotte in Flora the Red Menace and was part of the ensemble in On the Town.

Upon completing her studies, Sheridan made her mark in the Australian premiere of Cruel Intentions, produced by David Venn Enterprises. She is now captivating audiences in the Australian premiere tour of Tick, Tick… Boom! with Storeyboard Entertainment. Additionally, Sheridan lent her vocal talents to Lindenfelzer and Newman’s Scarlet: The Concept Recording.

Courtney Monsma (Glinda)

Courtney Monsma gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Princess Anna in the recent Australian tour of Disney’s Frozen the Musical. Currently, she is filming the upcoming Australian drama series Paper Dolls with Helium Pictures, set to air on Network 10 and 10 Play.

Her notable theater accomplishments include playing Katherine Howard in SIX The Musical at the Sydney Opera House in 2020, produced by Michael Coppel, Louise Withers, and Linda Bewick. Courtney was also part of the Australasian tour of Disney’s Aladdin as an understudy for Princess Jasmine, the Australian 2017/2018 tour of Mamma Mia! covering Sophie, and Opera Queensland’s production of Kiss Me Kate.

Originating from Queensland’s Gold Coast, Courtney has been performing in concerts and live events in the region since she was young. She graduated with a Bachelor of Musical Theatre from the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University in 2017. While studying under Associate Professor Paul Sabey, Courtney played prominent roles such as Charity in Sweet Charity, Carmen in The Life, and Maria in West Side Story. She also joined the tour of I Love You, You’re Perfect Now Change.

Courtney has appeared in several short films, including the award-winning short Dorothy, as well as on Toasted TV for Network 10 and The Strip for Nine Network. In 2022, she released her debut album, In The Light, featuring a collection of her favorite and career-defining songs, along with her original track, The Light That You Are.

Sheridan and Courtney have recently been revealed as the lead actresses for the roles of Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, in the highly anticipated 2023 Australian production of Wicked.

 

As Wicked prepares to land in Australia in 2023, fans can hardly contain their excitement for this bewitching theatrical experience. With its unforgettable story, mesmerizing music, and breathtaking production values, Wicked is set to captivate Australian audiences and remind us all of the transformative power of live theatre. So, get ready to defy gravity and join Elphaba and Glinda on their spellbinding journey in the magical land of Oz.