Duration and Milestones of Mary Kate Morrissey as Elphaba
Mary Kate Morrissey began playing Elphaba in the Broadway production of Wicked on November 12, 2019, and remained in the role through the show’s temporary closure on March 12, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of late 2024, she has not returned to the role full-time, making her tenure as Elphaba primarily span the late 2019 to early 2020 period. This overview clarifies her time in the role, notable milestones, and the status of her involvement with the production.
Background on Broadway Casting for the Role of Elphaba
Elphaba is the lead role of the musical Wicked, and casting has historically involved prominent Broadway performers. The show has had several notable actresses in the role, including Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, and later successors. Mary Kate Morrissey joined the company as Elphaba during a period of transition for the production, which had resumed performances after an extended pandemic shutdown.
Pre-Wicked Broadway credits
- And Peggy in Hamilton
- Ensemble and understudy work in On the Town
- Featured roles in national tours preceding Broadway
Exact Dates and Production Timeline
Mary Kate Morrissey joined the Broadway company of Wicked as Elphaba on November 12, 2019. Performances continued until March 12, 2020, when the Broadway theatres closed due to the global pandemic. The show remained dark for an extended period, and when it reopened in late 2021, the production had already cast new leads for both Elphaba and Glinda. Thus, Morrissey’s run as Elphaba did not extend into the post-pandemic phase of the production.
| Role | Start Date | End Date | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elphaba (Broadway) | November 12, 2019 | March 12, 2020 | Playbill, IBDB, BroadwayWorld |
Status Clarification and Current Involvement
Since the Broadway closure and subsequent reopening, Mary Kate Morrissey has not resumed performing the role of Elphaba on Broadway. Various official announcements and casting updates confirm the role has been filled by other performers as of the 2023–2024 seasons. Industry databases and recent news items reflect that she is no longer actively playing Elphaba but continues her career elsewhere.
Distinguishing Facts and Common Misconceptions
Confusion sometimes arises because Mary Kate Morrissey shares a surname with well-known performers and has an extensive résumé across multiple shows. However, her tenure as Elphaba was confined to the pre-pandemic period on Broadway. Accurate timelines help distinguish her stint in Wicked from other roles and from the ongoing performances of the show with different casts.
Verified Career Highlights and Achievements
While her run as Elphaba was relatively brief, it represented a significant milestone in her career, placing her among a select group of actresses who have performed the role on Broadway. This achievement is notable within her overall professional profile and is frequently referenced in her career summaries and official biographies.
Comparative Timeline Across Notable Elphabas
| Actress | Role | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idina Menzel | Elphaba | October 30, 2003 | September 5, 2004 | Original Elphaba |
| Kristin Chenoweth | Elphaba | October 30, 2003 | September 5, 2004 | Alternate; originated role |
| Mandy Gonzalez | Elphaba | October 2007 | July 2014 | Notable later cast |
| Mary Kate Morrissey | Elphaba | November 12, 2019 | March 12, 2020 | Pandemic-impacted run |
Context on Broadway Performances and Residencies
Broadway runs can be affected by casting changes, tours, and unforeseen events such as the pandemic. Mary Kate Morrissey’s time as Elphaba illustrates how even significant roles can be impacted by factors beyond an actor’s control. Understanding the history of a role requires acknowledging both the performer’s contribution and the circumstances surrounding their tenure.
Summary and Key Takeaways
- Mary Kate Morrissey played Elphaba on Broadway from November 12, 2019 to March 12, 2020.
- Her run was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and did not resume after the show reopened.
- She has not returned to the role permanently on Broadway as of the 2023–2024 seasons.
- Her casting is documented in official show histories and reputable industry news archives.
- Other actresses have held the role both before and after her tenure.