Australian theatre producer John Frost has announced that the role of the Wizard for the Brisbane and Perth seasons of the Broadway musical, Wicked will be played by much loved musical theatre star Simon Gallaher.
Since he first trod the musical theatre stage in 1984 in The Pirates of Penzance, Simon Gallaher has starred in numerous productions including Hello Dolly, The Student Prince, My Fair Lady, The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Merry Widow, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum and most recently Hairspray and Spamalot in Brisbane. As well as being a leading star of musical theatre, Simon is an award winning television star, concert performer, musician, pianist, songwriter and successful theatrical producer.
“I have been hoping to work with Simon for many years, and I’m thrilled that he has accepted our invitation to play The Wonderful Wizard of Oz for the Brisbane and Perth seasons of Wicked,” says John Frost.
“In 1985 Simon starred in the very first show at QPAC, the hugely successful The Pirates of Penzance, and in the week QPAC celebrates its 30th Birthday he will open there in Broadway’s biggest blockbuster Wicked – a wonderful case of serendipity.”
“Simon also met his wife in Perth 30 years ago so is looking forward to returning there to perform at the Crown Theatre. I can’t wait to see Simon’s take on the Wizard of Oz as part of the 10th Anniversary of Wicked.”
After it’s record breaking run in Melbourne in 2014, Wicked is currently playing at Sydney’s magnificent Capitol Theatre until 30 January, then transfers to the Lyric Theatre, QPAC from 12 February and to the Crown Theatre, Burswood from 3 May for a strictly limited season. For more information, visit: www.wickedthemusical.com.au for details.
Image: Simon Gallaher as The Wizard – photo by Stephen Reinhardt