SECOND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR / STAGE MANAGER
Being part of Wicked: Parts 1 & 2 was a remarkable experience, bringing one of the most iconic stage stories to life on an entirely new scale.
Having also worked on the stage production, it was fascinating to see how the world of Wicked expands on film and how much further you can push scale, detail, and imagination when bringing those sets and moments to life on screen.
The scale of filmmaking is awe-inspiring, and this project pushed that even further. It’s that sense of possibility, where anything can be built, lit, and brought to life, that made this production so special to be part of.
DESCRIPTION
A major two-part Universal Pictures production, Wicked reimagines the world of Oz on a cinematic scale. Filmed across extensive studio builds and large on-location sets, the project featured complex choreography, large ensemble sequences, and richly detailed environments that combined practical and digital effects.
The production’s scope demanded careful planning, collaboration, and precision across every department to bring one of theatre’s most beloved stories to life for the screen.
Assistant Directors in film can be compared to Stage Managers in theatre, though the connection isn’t often made. Having worked extensively in both, I’ve seen how similar the roles are in communication, leadership, and coordination.
After first transitioning into film on Snow White, I brought that experience to Wicked: Parts 1 & 2, overseeing all rehearsals across studio, set, and location. I managed the choreography department’s schedule and dancer budget and acted as the bridge between creative intent and logistical execution.
Working closely with the Choreography team and liaising daily with departments across Art, Set Decoration, Props, Costume, Hair & Makeup, Special and Visual Effects, Music, Production, Casting, and Direction, I ensured the creative work developed in rehearsal translated seamlessly to camera.
Musical films demand a unique blend of skills, combining an understanding of how choreography, music, and storytelling connect with the ability to manage the technical and logistical complexity of film production. Having spent my career in both worlds, I bring a perspective that helps bridge that gap and keep the creative process cohesive from rehearsal to screen.
The scale of Wicked brought every part of my experience into play: organisation, communication, and adaptability. Balancing creative ambition with practical detail on that level was demanding, but it’s exactly the kind of environment where I do my best work.
