Louise Dearman — Wicked, a world record, and her U.S. solo debut in Galesburg

She's the only actress in history to play both Glinda and Elphaba in Wicked. And on Saturday night, she's performing her first-ever U.S. solo show — right here in Galesburg. Louise Dearman joined Galesburg's Morning News on Friday, May 15, 2026. Listen to the full interview above. Topics covered in this interview: How a girl who started dancing at age 3 ended up on the West End stage The record no other actress holds — playing both Glinda and Elphaba in Wicked Which role is closer to the real Louise Dearman The green makeup, the glitter, and what it really takes to perform Wicked eight times a week Opening the Festival of Remembrance for the Royal Family at the Royal Albert Hall Touring the European arena circuit with Josh Groban What "A Wicked Evening" looks like — two 45-minute sets, a conversation with the audience, and yes, Defying Gravity Her dream role: Madeline Ashford in Death Becomes Her Rapid Fire: Glinda or Elphaba? West End or Broadway? Favorite venue?   "A Wicked Evening with Louise Dearman" is Saturday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg. Tickets are available at GalesburgOrpheum.org or by calling (309) 342-2299. Reserved seating — also available at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m. Related: World-class, world record — West End star Louise Dearman makes her U.S. solo debut in Galesburg Saturday