Wicked Role

When Wicked won an Olivier award Chorleywood cheered  – or at least friends of Natalie Andreou did. Natalie, who is currently Standby for leading character Elphaba in the West End musical, attended Carol Kristian Theatre School and has a strong fan base here who have followed her top performances in Mamma Mia, Evita, Rock of Ages and now Wicked. We talk to Natalie about landing her dream role.
Natalie knew that playing the green-faced Wicked Witch of the West (standby) was going to be a challenge.
“Wicked is the show every female performing artist wants, especially Elphaba. The songs are so iconic, it’s a big ask but it feels like I’ve done what I set out to do.”
Wicked puts a twist on the classic Wizard Of Oz story focusing on the unlikely friendship between two girls who meet as sorcery students, the blonde and popular Glinda and the misunderstood green skinned Elphaba.
“Elphaba is a very misunderstood character and goes through a huge journey” says Natalie
“I can relate to her (except the greenness!) –  I’m sure everyone has felt isolated and different at some point in their lives. The story touches on so many issues; relationships, prejudice and the importance of staying true to yourself. The role is also physically challenging. Once you go on stage you don’t come off! When I’m on every day, I do have to pace myself and rest is essential.”

Being a standby means covering the main part in scheduled performances throughout the run when the lead is away but also being in the building at all times, just in case of illness or injury.

“You’ll find me chilling backstage when I’m not on. The make up and wig take half an hour, the team are brilliant. If I suddenly catch myself in the mirror, it’s still a bit of a shock!”

But does she get nervous?

“It’s easy to panic about 2000 people out there but you can’t risk it  – it’s all about feeling confident, being on top of technique and knowing what works. I have learned to take it one step at a time, enjoy it and not think about the scale of it.”

When you play a lead part, adds Natalie, you have a great responsibility to the audience.

“ Your voice is your instrument and you have to look after it. Diet plays a massive part. I drink at least 2 litres of water a day and try to avoid dairy products. A banana, avocado and cheeky coffee will get me through. If my voice is struggling on a particular day, I take plenty of warm drinks  – lemon and ginger, manuka honey, Vocalzone throat pastilles are life savers! There are so many good songs to belt out..  I love Defying Gravity and The Wizard and I, but my favourite is No Good Deed. Elphaba is reflecting and questioning her motives, when people think they know you and tell you what you are, I think it’s very easy to question yourself. It’s a powerful song and feels great to perform. I’m looking forward to the next runs and in the meantime I am keeping myself match fit, constantly practising and exercising, ready for an call should I be needed.”

 Photos copyright Matt Crockett

Wicked, Apollo Victoria Theatre, SW1V 1LG

www.wickedthemusical.co.uk/