Original Glinda on Broadway: Verified Facts
This article explains who originated the role of Glinda on Broadway in The Wizard of Oz, covering the historical record, production context, and long‑standing references useful for researchers and fans.
Broadway Context for The Wizard of Oz
1903 and 1987 Productions
Two major Broadway adaptations of The Wizard of Oz exist: the early 1903 musical, The Wizard of Oz, and the 1987 musical, The Wizard of Oz. The term original Glinda on Broadway most often refers to the 1987 show at the Gershwin Theatre, a lavish production by director John C. Moffit and choreographer Kenny Ortega.
- 1903 show: Touring and regional references sometimes mention Glinda, but the score and book differ significantly from the canonical 1939 film.
- 1987 show: Closer to the film’s story; this production is the usual reference when discussing original Broadway Glinda.
Original Glinda Actress and Credits
Katherine Shindle: The Original Glinda
Katherine Shindle played Glinda in the 1987 Broadway production of The Wizard of Oz. Her performance is widely documented in cast recordings, reviews, and theatre reference sources as the definitive portrayal of the role in the show’s original run.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Glinda | Programme credit |
| Production | The Wizard of Oz (1987) | Playbill |
| Theatre | Gershwin Theatre | Venue record |
| Run | 1987–1989 | Historical run data |
| Notable cast context | Joined after early cast changes; noted in cast lists | Programme inserts |
Other Cast Notes and Recordings
While Katherine Shindle originated the role for the 1987 revival, later performances and national tours featured other actresses in the part. Cast recordings and compilations preserve her interpretation, which remains a reference for vocal and stylistic choices in the role.
Common Confusions and Clarifications
Film Versus Stage
The 1939 film portrayal of Glinda by Billie Burke is iconic, but it is not a Broadway credit. When discussing the original Glinda on Broadway, the focus stays on the 1987 production and Katherine Shindle’s performance.
Regional and Early Adaptations
Some community theatres and earlier tours used different titles and casting; however, these are not considered the original Broadway Glinda in authoritative theatre histories.
Legacy and Availability
Recordings, reviews, and theatre databases maintain consistent references to Katherine Shindle as the original Broadway Glinda. This continuity supports long‑term research, citation, and accurate casting discussion.
Key Takeaways
- Original Broadway Glinda: Katherine Shindle in the 1987 The Wizard of Oz.
- Production: Gershwin Theatre, 1987–1989.
- Common confusion: Film roles differ from stage; Billie Burke’s portrayal is not a Broadway credit.
- Reliable sources: Playbills, cast recordings, and theatre reference databases.