BWW Interviews: Murney Gets WICKED with Block in Columbus

This Saturday June 26th, two previous Elphabas from the widely popular Broadway musical Wicked will take the stage in Columbus. Julia Murney and Stephanie J. Block will sing in a special "Wicked Divas" concert with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra as part of the Nationwide Insurance Picnic with the Pops series. The orchestra is scheduled to perform selections from George Bizet's Carmen. Murney and Block will sing selections from Wicked, as well as Ragtime, Chicago, Funny Girl, and much more.

Ms. Murney has previously performed in several concerts in the "Wicked Divas" series with different counterparts, including wonderful past Glindas Megan Hilty and Jennifer Laura Thompson. This time she will be accompanied by an actress who has also played the role of Elphaba in the musical Wicked on Broadway, Stephanie J. Block.

Recently, Julia Murney was kind enough to answer a few questions about the upcoming concert.

You've performed several of the Wicked Divas concerts now, including one with Megan Hilty, where even though the two of you never shared the stage as Elphaba and Glinda at the same time, you sounded great together in concert. This show is different in that it features two Elphabas. How do you adapt the show when both of you have played the same role and you're missing your Glinda the good witch counterpart?

The biggest adapting is being done by Steph, who is going to take the Glinda part in 'For Good.' Otherwise, we're singing all kinds of other songs (this program is actually quite different from Cincinnati last year) and I just get to revel in her brilliant voice.

Similarly, how do you choose which songs to sing? Is there one in particular that is special to you that you always want to make sure to perform?

So many songs are special for so many different reasons. I will say that I love to do "Ring Them Bells," as I love John Kander with every inch of my heart.

Is there anyone you would love to do another Wicked Divas show with that you currently aren't scheduled?

Sure! Bring 'em on! What about some Morribles? They're divas, too!

The worlds of classical music and Broadway have their similarities, yet differences too. What would you tell someone who may be a fan of symphonies but not musical theater to convince them they'd enjoy this concert just as well as any other symphonic show?

While there certainly is a lot of vocal, the orchestra also has their time to shine without us...I think it's a nice combo platter.

Both you and Stephanie have your own solo CDs available. Will either of you be singing anything from them?

No we're not, but they sure will be for sale in the lobby (and online, and in some stores...)...feelfreetopickthembothuppeople...

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For more information on what is sure to be an amazing show, please visit the Columbus Symphony Orchestra's website at www.PicnicWithThePops.com or call 614-228-8600.