Additional Coverage:
- ‘Wicked: For Good’ director Jon M. Chu says he auditioned actors for Dorothy behind a sheet (businessinsider.com)
“Wicked: For Good” Director Kept Dorothy’s Identity Under Wraps with Unique Audition Process
Director Jon M. Chu took an unconventional approach to casting the iconic role of Dorothy in the highly anticipated film “Wicked: For Good.” In a move to keep the spotlight firmly on the main characters, Elphaba and Glinda, Chu intentionally sought an actress whose face would never be shown on screen, opting instead for a silhouette-only audition process.
The decision to obscure Dorothy’s identity throughout the film meant that her face would only be seen from a distance, from the legs down, or in silhouette. To align with this vision, Chu implemented a unique audition method.
“We would put a sheet up, looking at the performer’s silhouette,” Chu explained in an interview. “Through that, I was looking at how she could walk, but also, could I guide her in that way?
The person had to have youthful energy.”
Ultimately, the role was secured by dancer Bethany Weaver. “We ultimately chose a dancer, Bethany Weaver,” Chu confirmed.
Despite his initial plan, Chu admitted to questioning his choice during filming, even shooting some scenes where Dorothy’s face was visible. However, each time, the director found it to be a distraction from the central narrative.
“Every time it drew us to, ‘What does Dorothy think?’ we reminded ourselves of that,” he stated, emphasizing the film’s focus on Elphaba and Glinda’s journey.
Even without her face being seen, Weaver expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity. In an Instagram post, she wrote, “It’s been an honour to carry the legacy of the brilliant women before me who have stepped into these shoes and embarked on the yellow brick road. I hope I have made them proud.”
“Wicked: For Good” is currently playing in theaters.