The actor reveals how leaving Broadway to play Wicked‘s Fiyero in the West End during its 20th anniversary is a dream come true.
For visitors to London who aren’t aware, what is Wicked about?
Wicked is the story of two women, one popular, one… green, and how they grow to love one another despite their differences. Even if you’ve seen The Wizard of Oz, you’ll experience that world in a completely new way. It’s funny, emotional, visually spectacular and has some of the best music ever written for the stage.
Why do you think Wicked has remained so popular after all these years?
The story is timeless. Every generation understands what it feels like to be judged before being understood or to question the narratives they’ve been told. Add Stephen Schwartz’s incredible score, the show’s unreal production values and characters audiences genuinely care about, and you have a musical people want to experience again and again.
Please tell us more about your role.
I play Fiyero, a prince who initially seems to be interested only in having a good time.He has one of the best character arcs in the show because he grows into someone who learns to stand up for what he believes is right, even when it comes at great personal cost.
You played the same role on Broadway; what enticed you to join the cast in London?
Getting the chance to play Fiyero in the West End’s 20th-anniversary company was an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up. I mean, how often do you get to live in a foreign country with your family by your side, doing something you absolutely love? It’s a dream come true.
How long have you been here and what was your first impression of the city?
I’ve been here for a couple of months. My first impression was just how beautiful it is – you can turn a corner and suddenly find yourself standing in front of a palace, a stunning park or a building that’s hundreds of years old. The city has an amazing way of blending history with everyday life.
Do you have any favourite locations or landmarks?
I spend a lot of time running or outside with my family, so I’ve fallen in love with places like St James’s Park, Battersea Park and Hyde Park. Running past Buckingham Palace never really gets old. And taking the girls to playgrounds in London has given me the chance to discover corners of the city I probably never would’ve found otherwise.
You’ve got a completely free day in London. Where does it begin and end?
It starts with an early run while the city is waking up. Then back to South Kensington for a relaxing breakfast with the girls. We’d probably head to a museum or historic site because we love learning about the places we travel to (and my wife Julie is obsessed with the royals). Then probably an afternoon tea followed by one last walk through a park to soak up the evening sunshine.
If friends were visiting from New York, where would you take them for dinner?
I’d take them to a traditional pub; the culture is one of the first things I was taken with. People gather and socialise – it feels uniquely British.
Finally, is there anything about London that would make you want to stay?
Absolutely. For me, a place is defined by its people and London has some of the most kind and passionate people I’ve ever met. The way they welcomed me and my family into their city says so much about who they are. I also love all the green space and how easy it is to explore on foot or by bike. I’ll always have a deep connection to New York, but London has definitely found a place in my heart.
You can see Wicked at The Apollo Victoria Theatre. Book tickets here.
