Q&A With Adam Murphy From WICKED THE MUSICAL OZ
How did you first become involved in theatre, and what was the audition process like for securing the role of Dr. Dillamond in Wicked the Musical?
I first became involved with theatre by entering a few Talent shows at primary school which led to some school productions, amateur theatre productions and then pursuing a career in the performing arts. My first professional theatre contract was over 30 years ago in a NZ production of The Official Tribute to the Blues Brothers where I played Elwood Blues.
My Wicked audition process was an enjoyable one which is great because auditions are not always enjoyable experiences. I was auditioning for the role of Dr Dillamond who is also a cover for The Wizard. I did the Dillamond scene and song, and then did it again by putting some notes into practice. I also did a scene and a song for the Wizard character a few times.
I was then given a different Wizard scene to go away and look at before coming back in and working on it with the director. Luckily, I didn't have to wait too long to hear that I was successful.
Dr. Dillamond is such a pivotal character in Wicked. What aspects of his personality or journey resonate with you the most, and how do you bring those elements to life on stage?
There are many aspects to Dr Dillamond's character. He is an amazing teacher who is loved by the students. He encourages debate and uses those discussions to weave truth and understanding into his lessons. He inspires the students and is inspired by them. He is passionate, empathetic, funny and a strong force when it comes to politics.
The trick to bringing those aspects to life each night is identifying all the beats in the scene where you can highlight those attributes. It could be from using vocal strength when enforcing an idea to a lightening of voice in an empathetic moment. A silly physical trait for a comedic moment to a bold gesture for a strong moment of triumph.
What challenges did you face in interpreting and portraying Dr. Dillamond, and how did you overcome them?
Initially I had to find the strength in the character without making him seem harsh. Although he is a goat, I had to remind myself to portray him like any strong, distinguished character I might play. The challenge I faced when we started teching the show was the restriction in what I could see and hear in the makeup and costume. But like every tech session you work these things out and I'm very used to the conditions now of what it takes to play Dr Dillamond.
You've had an extensive career in theatre across New Zealand and Australia. What inspired you to pursue acting, and how did you get started in the industry?
The idea of seeing things from a different point of view or stepping into someone else's shoes inspired me to pursue acting. I also love the immediate feedback from an audience which can inform you whether you've done your job well or whether you have to rethink what didn't work and try some other approach the next night.
After a bit of pro-am work in NZ, my first professional job was from an audition where the producers were recommended to see me by an amateur director. From that first gig I've tried to keep moving forward. There has been a lot of auditions. A lot of turning up ready to work.
Can you share some highlights or memorable experiences from your early days in theatre in New Zealand?
A major highlight for me early in my career was getting the opportunity to work with Elric Hooper at the Court Theatre in Christchurch. He had seen me in a pro-am production of Singin' in the Rain and had sent word that he wanted to meet me. He offered me my first job at The Court in a production of She Loves Me with Rima Te Wiata.
Not only was he directing the show he was also playing a character in the show as someone had pulled out last minute. I learned so much from that experience and I ended up working at The Court for about 2 years straight in shows ranging from The Wind in the Willows to Mother Courage and her Children. I often say that time at the Court was my drama school.