Starting today, East Lansing theater fans can experience "Wicked," one of the biggest Broadway musicals in recent years, at Wharton Center's Cobb Great Hall.
"Wicked," which serves as a prequel of sorts to the story "The Wizard of Oz," will be in town from July 16 -Aug. 10.
"I'm extremely excited about 'Wicked's' return," said Bob Hoffman, public relations manager for Wharton Center. "It has everything that makes a good Broadway show: action, adventure, a story that makes you think and a cast of characters everyone relates to."
One such character is Dr. Dillamond, played by veteran actor Tom Flynn, who is central to the fictional 'Shiz University' located in Oz. The main character of "Wicked," Elphaba, serves as his assistant for a segment of the play's first act.
The State News talked with Flynn about his role, as well as his experiences performing with the rest of the "Wicked" crew.
The State News What role does Dr. Dillamond play in the musical?
Tom Flynn Dr. Dillamond is the sole remaining Animal professor at Shiz University. There is a plot to rid Oz of any subversive thought toward any kind of people who are different, my character being one of them. I'm still one of the Animals in the world of Oz who is able to communicate. I reveal to Elphaba that something is going on in Oz that rids animals of their ability to speak. It's that event that really catapults her into her journey about justice and truth and really standing for what you believe in.
SN How do you indicate that something urgent is about to happen?
TF Actually, the writing takes care of itself. (Dillamond) has a great deal of compassion and love, and naturally when the events start to turn there's a sense of urgency in the tempo and pace that I deliver the scene with Elphaba about how dangerous things are becoming.
SN What was it like auditioning for the role?
TF My audition was almost two years ago. Initially, I auditioned with the casting director and one of the associate directors. In those auditions you have to read the whole scene, and also sing one song. For a really big show, it's very stressful. I'm very aware that it's really important to hit the ball out of the park. You have to do whatever needs to be done to get centered and focused.
SN Have you enjoyed your experience with "Wicked" so far?
TF I would say without a doubt that it's been the best career experience I've had in 25 years. I've been in some great shows and had a lot of fun, but in terms of the quality of the show, how the producers treat the cast, the direction and the role I get to play, it's my favorite.
SN At this stage, does a tour like "Wicked" get easier or harder?
TF I'm not tired of it. It still seems fresh every night I go out, and I do my absolute best to deliver my role like it's the first time I've ever said those words. I think most of the time it's pretty successful. It's never boring to me.