How Wicked-ly talented UNCSA alumni shaped the enchanting world of Oz

Set in the magical Land of Oz, “Wicked” brings audiences a new perspective on a familiar story: the unlikely friendship between “pop-ular” Glinda the Good and Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West. Since its Broadway debut in 2003, this captivating backstory to “The Wizard of Oz” has enchanted audiences for over 20 years and is now heading to the silver screen, adding layers of nuance, courage and heart to a timeless classic.

Many of the talents behind the enduring success of “Wicked” got their start at UNCSA. Alumni such as costume designer Paul Tazewell, original director Joe Mantello, and casting director Tiffany Little Canfield helped shape the look, feel, and characters of Oz, leaving a lasting impact on the story’s legacy both on stage and on screen.

Here’s a look at the “Wicked” connections – in alphabetical order – that make our school an integral part of Oz.

Craig Aves

Craig Aves (B.F.A. Lighting ‘91) serves as the Head Electrician on Broadway, using his expertise in lighting to heighten the show with precision and artistry.

Jonathan Bach

Jonathan Bach (B.F.A. Stage Management ‘19) is currently an Assistant Stage Manager on Broadway, contributing his skills to keep the production running seamlessly behind the scenes.

Peyton Taylor Becker

Peyton Taylor Becker (B.F.A. Stage Management ‘13) serves as Production Stage Manager on Broadway, overseeing each performance with meticulous attention and skill.

Matt Cadenhead

As Moving Light Technician for the “Wicked” Munchkinland Tour, Matt Cadenhead (B.F.A. Lighting ‘07) brought expertise in lighting technology to one of Broadway’s most beloved productions. From 2018 to 2023, he traveled with the show, ensuring the lighting design added depth and vibrancy to Oz.

Tiffany Little Canfield

UNCSA alumna Tiffany Little Canfield (B.F.A. Drama ’00), known for casting projects like “The Color Purple” and “The Little Mermaid,” brought her casting expertise to “Wicked.” Her work, including the selection of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, has contributed to a fresh, authentic portrayal of Oz.

Amanda Lake-White

Amanda Lake-White (B.F.A. Stage Management ’11) worked with the wardrobe crew for Wicked’s tour during its run in Norfolk, helping ensure polished and seamless performances.

Wayne Leechford

Wayne Leechford (B.M. '95, M.M. '97) played clarinet and saxophone in the “Wicked” tour orchestra, performing in 144 shows from 2010 to 2023, including engagements in Durham and Greensboro, bringing Oz’s music to life across North Carolina.

Joe Mantello

As the original director of “Wicked” on Broadway, Joe Mantello (B.F.A. Drama '84) was instrumental in shaping this cultural phenomenon. Known for his work on “Angels in America” and “The Boys in the Band,” Mantello balanced heart with spectacle in Oz, crafting a tale of courage and self-acceptance that has resonated for decades.

Alumnus Joe Mantello with Idina Menzel (left) and Kristin. Chenoweth (Right) / Photo credit: Getty Images/Bruce Glikas

Brian Messina

With 15 years on the “Wicked” Munchkinland Tour, Brian Messina (B.F.A. Lighting ‘06) has been a key part of the show’s technical team. As an Advance Electrician and Sound Technician since 2009, Messina has overseen lighting and sound for the National 2 tour, ensuring consistent technical excellence and quality.

Martin Eric Rimes

Design and Production faculty emeritus Martin Eric Rimes has been with the “Wicked” tour since its inception. When he first joined UNCSA, he turned down the role of Broadway Head Electrician on "Wicked" to dedicate himself to teaching. While at UNCSA, he continued to work as the Advance Electrician on the 1st National Tour from 2005-2009 and then on the 2nd National Tour from 2009-2024. Now retired from UNCSA, he serves as the Head Electrician on the 2nd National Tour, having brought "Wicked" to life in nearly 80 cities across the U.S. — including several sit-down productions. His work behind the scenes has been integral to bringing the magic of Oz to life for audiences across the country.

Faculty emeritus Martin Eric Rhimes working on the "Wicked" Broadway production / Contributed photo

Anthony Santos

Anthony Santos (B.F.A. Dance ‘17) delights audiences nationwide as a cast member in the U.S. tour of “Wicked,” lending his talent and artistry to the world of Oz.

Alumnus Anthony Santos (B.F.A. Dance '17) for the U.S. tour of “Wicked" / Photo credit: Santos' Instagram

Francesca Eleanore Schiller

Francesca Eleanore Schiller (B.F.A. Costume Technology ’17) is a costume technician at Tricorne Costumes, where she crafted costumes for the Emerald City ensemble and iconic pieces for characters like Madame Morrible and Glinda in productions worldwide.

Josh Selander

Josh Selander (B.F.A. Lighting ‘06), Advance Electrician for “Wicked” on tour from 2007 to 2014, managed a team of stagehands, overseeing projections, set practicals and electrics. His work was crucial to creating Wicked’s vivid stage presence across cities.

Michael Sharpe

Faculty member and alumnus Michael Sharpe (H.S. Visual Arts ‘87, B.F.A. Costume Design ‘94) has been an Associate Costume Designer for “Wicked” since it opened in 2003. His work has shaped the show’s imaginative costumes, influencing how audiences see the characters of Oz.

Paul Tazewell

Design and Production alumnus Tony and Emmy Award-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell (B.F.A. Costume Design '86) served as Costume Designer for the film adaptation of "Wicked," reimagining Oz’s most iconic characters with his signature eye for detail and storytelling. Known for his groundbreaking work on "Hamilton" and "Suffs," Tazewell has a knack for crafting costumes that dazzle while deepening the narrative, helping to tell each character's story through fabric and design.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wicked Movie (@wickedmovie)

With “Wicked,” Tazewell has woven a stunning visual tapestry, transforming Glinda, Elphaba and the citizens of Oz into unforgettable, multidimensional characters that are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.

Haley Wilson

Haley Wilson (B.F.A. Stage Management ‘16) is currently a substitute stage manager on Broadway, ensuring continuity and quality through her adaptability and skill.

Mary Kay Woolly Young

Mary Kay Woolly Young (H.S. Music ‘85) performed with “Wicked” as a musician on tour, sharing the music of Oz during engagements in New Orleans and Little Rock, bringing her musical talents to audiences far and wide.

Did you catch a connection to a "Wicked" that is not included on this list? Send us an email(opens in new tab) and we will update the story.

By Natalie Shrader

November 14, 2024