Wicked the Musical Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary On Stage. An

Fiyero In Wicked: The Untold Story & Broadway Cast!

Wicked the Musical Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary On Stage. An

By  Conor Larkin MD

Ever wondered about the dashing prince in "Wicked" who steals Elphaba's heart and ultimately becomes the Scarecrow? Fiyero Tigelaar is not just a love interest; he's the heart and soul of the story, a complex character whose transformation mirrors the musical's central themes of prejudice and redemption.

Fiyero, the Winkie prince, bursts onto the scene at Shiz University, a whirlwind of nonchalance and charm. Expelled from his previous academic institutions, Fiyero quickly establishes himself as a magnetic figure, known for his devil-may-care attitude and penchant for lavish parties. His arrival shakes up the status quo, particularly his audacious organization of a grand ball at the Ozdust Ballroom. Fiyero's character embodies a carefree existence, a stark contrast to the studious and often morally conflicted Elphaba. It is his ability to challenge norms and his initial indifference that draws Elphaba to him, setting in motion a love story that defies societal expectations and magical decrees.

Category Information
Full Name Fiyero Tigelaar
Title Winkie Prince
Occupation Student (formerly), Revolutionary, Scarecrow (ultimately)
Love Interest Elphaba
Broadway Debut October 8, 2003 (as part of "Wicked" opening night)
Original Broadway Actor Norbert Leo Butz
Notable Actors Who Played Fiyero Norbert Leo Butz, Aaron Tveit, Colin Donnell, Kevin Kern, Jonathan Bailey (upcoming film)
Key Character Trait Transformation from carefree to deeply committed
Relationship with Elphaba Central love story of "Wicked," marked by defying societal norms and a deep, abiding connection
Transformation into Scarecrow Ultimate act of sacrifice and love, symbolizing his commitment to Elphaba's cause
Reference Wicked Official Website

The journey of Fiyero is intricately linked to Elphaba, the misunderstood "Wicked Witch of the West." Their connection isnt just a romantic subplot; it's the emotional core of the narrative. Fiyero is initially drawn to Elphaba's intelligence and passion, qualities often overlooked by others. As he spends time with her, witnessing her unwavering commitment to justice and her fight against the oppressive regime of the Wizard, his own perspective begins to shift. He transitions from a detached observer to an active participant in Elphaba's quest, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice to protect her.

Norbert Leo Butz immortalized the role of Fiyero in the original Broadway production of "Wicked." His portrayal captured the character's initial flippancy and subsequent depth, leaving an indelible mark on the musical's legacy. Butz's performance, preserved on the cast album, continues to be celebrated by fans. He remained with the show for a year, setting a high standard for those who followed in his footsteps. While other original cast members also had memorable runs, Butz's departure marked a significant moment in the show's history.

Many talented actors have since taken on the mantle of Fiyero, each bringing their own interpretation to the role. Aaron Tveit, known for his charismatic stage presence, also played the part. Other notable performers who have portrayed Fiyero include Alexander Quiroga, Andy Karl, Anthony Galde, Ashley Parker Angel, Brad Bass, Brandon Mattieus, Bryan West, and Clifton Oliver. These actors have all contributed to the rich tapestry of performances that define Fiyero's character.

The character has also evolved with touring productions. Colin Donnell, for instance, originated the role of Fiyero in the second national tour of "Wicked," which debuted on March 12, 2009. Donnell's interpretation resonated with audiences across the country. He departed from the touring company on March 8, 2010, after a year of performances, and was subsequently replaced by Chris Peluso on March 10, 2010. Donnell shared the stage with Marcie Dodd as Elphaba and Helene Yorke as Glinda, creating a dynamic trio that captivated audiences.

The upcoming film adaptation of "Wicked" has generated considerable excitement, particularly with the casting of Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in "Bridgerton," as Fiyero. Bailey's casting has been praised by many, who believe he possesses the charisma and depth to bring the character to life on the big screen. His portrayal promises to introduce Fiyero to a new generation of fans, further solidifying the character's place in popular culture.

The narrative of "Wicked" revolves around eight central figures, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama: Elphaba, Glinda, Fiyero, Madame Morrible, the Wizard of Oz, Nessarose, Boq, and Dr. Dillamond. Fiyero's interactions with each of these characters shape his journey and influence the events of the story. His relationships, particularly with Elphaba and Glinda, are pivotal to understanding the complexities of the plot.

Currently, the role of Fiyero is portrayed by Kevern Kern in some productions. Kern's interpretation adds to the ongoing evolution of the character, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of Fiyero Tigelaar. Each actor who embodies the role brings their unique talents and perspectives, ensuring that Fiyero remains a compelling and relevant figure.

Returning to the role, Aaron Tveit reprised his performance as Fiyero on January 21, 2009. Cristy Candler also returned to the production as Nessarose on February 10, 2009, and Kevin Kern once again took on the role of Fiyero on March 10, 2009. These returns highlighted the enduring connection actors felt to the musical and their respective characters.

Significant cast changes occurred around this time as well. Rondi Reed stepped into the role of Madame Morrible, replacing Jayne Houdyshell on March 17, 2009. Dee Roscioli replaced Nicole Parker as Elphaba on July 21, 2009, marking another transition in the show's principal cast.

The original Broadway cast of "Wicked," which premiered on October 8, 2003, and closed on October 30, 2003, holds a special place in the hearts of theatergoers. They were the pioneers who brought the story to life and set the standard for all subsequent productions. Meeting the original cast is a cherished experience for many fans, offering a glimpse into the origins of this beloved musical.

As the "Wicked" movie approaches, comparisons between the original Broadway cast and the new film cast are inevitable. Fans are eager to see how the new actors will interpret the iconic characters and whether they will capture the same magic that made the original production so special. The transition from stage to screen presents both challenges and opportunities for the actors involved.

While Jonathan Bailey's casting as Fiyero has garnered significant attention, it's worth noting that the character of Fiyero does not appear in the original "Wizard of Oz" story. He is a creation of the "Wicked" musical, adding a layer of romance and complexity to the narrative. This deviation from the source material allows the musical to explore themes of love, loyalty, and redemption in a unique and compelling way.

The enduring popularity of "Wicked" stems from its ability to resonate with audiences on multiple levels. The music, the costumes, the spectacle, and the characters all contribute to the show's magic. But at its heart, "Wicked" is a story about friendship, acceptance, and the power of standing up for what you believe in. Fiyero's journey from a carefree prince to a devoted ally embodies these themes, making him a character that audiences can connect with and admire. His ultimate transformation into the Scarecrow is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Elphaba and her cause, solidifying his place as one of the most memorable characters in musical theater.

Wicked the Musical Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary On Stage. An
Wicked the Musical Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary On Stage. An

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Ryan McCartan — Artists and Beyond
Ryan McCartan — Artists and Beyond

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Elphaba (Idina Menzel) & Fiyero (Norbert Leo Butz) WICKED Pinterest
Elphaba (Idina Menzel) & Fiyero (Norbert Leo Butz) WICKED Pinterest

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