A Wicked Local Cast
When Derek F. Smith, Jaala Wootton and Juliet Burvill landed leading roles in the Brolga Theatre’s production of Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz, it was like they’d found the other side of the rainbow where dreams really do come true.
Derek (Wizard) has long been a fan of live productions and while he’s performed in some regional shows, he’s never had a leading role in a Broadway musical, until now.
“I’ve seen Wicked in London, Paris, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, so it’s certainly my favourite musical,” the well-known Fraser Coast singer said.
“When I saw they were putting on Wicked locally, I wanted to get involved. This is my first principal acting role and I’m out of my comfort zone, but I’m really excited.
“What a great opportunity it is for our community to have such a high-level production here. The level of local talent is just brilliant.”
Hervey Bay State High School teacher Jaala Wootton (Elphaba) said that when she opted for an education degree rather than Dance and Music, she thought her future chances to perform would be minimal.
“My areas in education are Dance and Music. I’ve never sung at this level before so this is an amazing opportunity for me.
"Community theatre is an important part in keeping the Arts alive in regional areas."
For 18-year-old Juliet Burvill (Galinda), not only is she thrilled to be performing in Wicked, she’s also excited to be acting alongside her former senior Music and Dance teacher, Jaala.
“It’s exciting to be acting alongside her and that we have that connection.”
Juliet is already a stage veteran, having performed in Broadway By the Bay’s Legally Blonde and many other smaller shows. She’s keen to pursue live theatre as a full-time career.
Story: Jocelyn Watts
Photo: Robert Haigh
Wicked: The Untold Story of the Wicked of Oz will appear at the Brolga Theatre for 3 shows only Friday 18 & Saturday 19 June.
