Sheridan Adams and Courtney Monsma have been announced as the leading stars of John Frost for Crossroads Live Australia’s production of Wicked, which premieres at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in August. 

Adams, who will play Elphaba, will be starring in a leading role for the first time. She will be performing in the ensemble of Tick, Tick… Boom! and was part of the company for Cruel Intentions: The 90’s Musical. 

“When Sheridan auditioned for an ensemble role and we heard her sing Defying Gravity, we were mesmerised. When she sang Defying Gravity four times in a row, getting stronger each time, we immediately knew we had found our Elphaba,” said producer John Frost.

Monsma has starred as Princess Anna in Frozen The Musical and has also performed in other Australian smash hits such as Six The Musical and Mamma Mia. 

“Courtney has proven to be an exciting performer in Frozen, Six and Aladdin, but we didn’t know how funny she could be until she blew us away during the auditions,” said Frost. 

With over 2000 auditionees, Frost said that the process was challenging but was glad to have found two leads who he was confident would nail the performance. 

“We are so excited to have Australia’s two most electrifying new leading ladies play Elphaba and Glinda.”

Frost also promised some never-before-seen in Australia and “very expensive” special effects that would stun Australian audiences. If Adams’ showstopping performance of ‘Defying Gravity’ that media were treated to at the press launch was anything to go by, this is going to be a very strong show.

Wicked premieres at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in August. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here. 

Photo credit: Hugh Stewart