I Was The First Asian Elphaba in the West End’s Wicked - Determination, Delusion & Dreaming Big | Nicola Espallardo

About this episode

Nicola Espallardo discusses her groundbreaking role as the first Asian Elphaba in Wicked and the challenges of pursuing a career in theatre.

Nicola Espallardo is a trailblazer. Not only has she appeared in some of the biggest musicals in the world (Les Miserables, Hamilton), she was also the first Asian person to play Elphaba in the West End’s Wicked. All before the age of 30.  Nicola has done what many only hope to do - she’s achieved her dream. In this episode she talks about not only how empowering that felt, but why it can also lead to the scariest moment in any career: figuring out what comes next.  Along the way, we hear truly sensational stories that shine a spotlight on what really goes on in theatre’s biggest shows. Nicola tells us about being hurriedly painted green when she had to go on mid-show for one of the most iconic roles in musical theatre, what happens when you forget your lines and your scene partner has to improvise you both a way out of it, and how to deal with audience members filming your performance night after night.  Nicola also shares the pride of being able to represent her community on stage, as well as explaining the pressures that run alongside that. She’s an incredible, inspiring guest in so many ways. Nicola Espallardo, You’re on Tonight.  \ If you enjoyed the…

People in this episode

Hosts: Kara Alberts-Turner, Liam Horrigan

Guest: Nicola Espallardo

Topics covered

• theatre
• musicals
• representation
• career challenges
• performing arts

Keywords

• Elphaba
• Wicked
• musical theatre
• Asian representation
• career progression

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Sound Company Ltd

Books & works: Wicked, Les Miserables, Hamilton

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