Australian theatre producer John Frost has announced that the role of Glinda in the 2015 Brisbane and Perth seasons of the Broadway musical will be played by Suzie Mathers, taking over from Lucy Durack who is leaving at the end of the Sydney season for her next “thrillifying” role … as a mother.
As an original ensemble member of Wicked in 2008, Suzie took over the role of Glinda in 2011, performing in Singapore, South Korea, New Zealand and Manila to much critical acclaim. Most recently Suzie has been living in London, where she appeared in a new musical production of Jaberwocky at the St James Theatre, and in Hello Jerry! with the RTE Concert Orchestra in Dublin.
“I am thrilled that Suzie could return from London to play Glinda in this 10th Anniversary tour,” said John Frost. “Suzie was a knockout in this role internationally, and I know Australian audiences will be delighted to see her acclaimed performance. She will perform at selected performances towards the end of the Sydney run, then resume the role for the Brisbane and Perth seasons.”
This 10th Anniversary tour of “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster” (The New York Times) also stars Jemma Rix as Elphaba, Steve Danielsen as Fiyero, Maggie Kirkpatrick as Madame Morrible, Emily Cascarino as Nessarose, Edward Grey as Boq, Glen Hogstrom as Dr Dillamond and Simon Gallaher as The Wizard in the Brisbane and Perth seasons.
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: Suzie Mathers as Glinda – photo by Maye Wong