An exciting and groundbreaking reimagining of the beloved musical Wicked is coming to the London stage, featuring an all-transgender and non-binary cast. This unique production, known as Trans Wicked, will be staged for one night only at the Clapham Grand in London on Sunday, July 27. This special event aims to raise funds for London Trans+ Pride, which takes place the day before on July 26, and is known as the largest trans Pride event globally.
Trans Wicked promises a fresh and vibrant take on the original show, featuring all the well-loved musical numbers along with some innovative staging and special effects. The show is directed and written by the award-winning Tabby Lamb, who will also appear in the production as the narrator, a character inspired by Ozma, the canonically trans character from L. Frank Baum’s Ozma of Oz.
The cast includes Anthony Lexa, known for their role in Sex Education, taking on the role of Glinda, and drag king performer Sé Carr stepping into the shoes of Elphaba. Teddy Hinde, who has previously performed in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will play Fiyero, while Sam Buttery, familiar from Kaos and Wreck, will portray Doctor Dillamond. Gigi Zahir, also known by their drag persona Crayola, will perform as both Madame Morrible and Boq, with actor E Round completing the central cast as Nessarose and The Wizard.
The production will also feature the London Trans Choir, who will lend their voices to enhance the musical highlights, promising an even more epic experience for audiences.
Speaking about the origins of Trans Wicked, Sé Carr shared that the idea was born from their own experiences in musical theatre as a trans performer. Carr recalled a conversation with friends about roles they could excel in based on their skills, but would unlikely be cast in due to the rigid typecasting prevalent in the industry. This realization led to the creation of Trans Wicked, with Carr and Lamb deciding to make space for trans performers to showcase their talents in roles typically not accessible to them.
Wicked has long resonated with the LGBTQ+ community, with its themes of friendship, love, and overcoming societal ostracism. For the trans community, these themes carry particular significance, reflecting their own experiences of marginalization and the search for acceptance.
Tabby Lamb emphasized that the story’s exploration of being different from birth and finding one's identity is deeply meaningful for trans individuals. The production seeks to highlight these themes while celebrating the diversity and talent within the trans and non-binary communities.
Lamb also pointed out the importance of supporting London Trans+ Pride, especially in a climate where corporate support for LGBTQ+ causes is waning. Trans Wicked aims to both entertain and inspire, providing trans individuals with visibility and a platform to shine.
As for what audience members can expect from Trans Wicked, Carr expressed a desire for attendees to leave feeling joyful and inspired. The team behind the production has poured their passion into the show, aiming to deliver a spectacle that will leave a lasting impression.
Trans Wicked is an opportunity to not only enjoy a beloved musical but also to witness a powerful statement on inclusion, representation, and the celebration of trans talent. With tickets available now, this one-night-only event is not to be missed. Whether it leads to further performances remains to be seen, but the cast and crew are hopeful for future opportunities to bring this unique vision to more audiences.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this innovative production. Remember to keep discussions respectful and supportive of the talented individuals bringing Trans Wicked to life.
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