Witches On Stage

For most people, the last day of October is the only time where they dress up and put on a costume. That’s definitely not true for those of us that work in theatre or any other section of performing arts. Costumes are a regular sight. There are several popular costumes on this day with plenty of local lore to go with them. One costume in particular classically stands out on both the stage and on doorsteps. Here are some of the most recognisable witches on stage.

Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked

Lucy St. Louis (Glinda on the left) and Alexia Khadime (Elphaba on the right). Photo by Matt Crockett.

These are possibly the most talked about witches right now. With the live action movie premiering next month, these two have definitely become famous even outside of Oz. This duo is famous among theatre fans for multiple reasons. The story of Wicked accurately portrays young adult (high school/undergrad age) interactions between females. Fans everywhere quickly relate to characteristics in both of the leading ladies as Elphaba resonates easily with those who feel they are on the outside looking in. Glinda is the dynamic and charming popular girl who struggles with her insecurities.

The Witch from Into The Woods

First appearing on Broadway in 1987, this witch has been around for a little while. Her character also appeared in the live action film Into The Woods. Her backstory in this classic tale is similar to another known character in fairy tales. In this story’s version, she is the one who grew magic beans and raised Rapunzel. Unlike other witches in stories, when she curses her enemy she tells them the exact ingredients that will break her curse thus spinning the other fairy tales together.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione starring in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry, Ron, and Hermione in the library.

These modern witches have only recently joined the stage, yet were already known world wide. This trio initially became popular from books then film then transitioned to the stage. Though their costumes are relatively simple classics of black cloaks, their powers are not to be trifled with. Each of the three are easily enjoyed by fans around the world. Harry represents the obvious hero underdog, Ron becoming brave with each obstacle he faces, and Hermione with her natural talent.

Witch sisters in Macbeth

Though not much is known about the witch sisters in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, they are essential to the play. Those who study theatre in the classroom have often debated about what these witches in particular represent. Could it be the pagan symbol of maiden, mother, crone? The representation of time past, present, and future as Macbeth struggles? Or even more closely resembling the Greek tragedy’s fates? 

Ursula the leading lady from Unfortunate Musical

Ursula holding a microphone in front of a giant disco ball. Photo by Pamela Raith Photography

Every child knows the famous red-headed mermaid and her story. This tale is seen from a different angle under the sea. This diva has plenty of octaves to match her own personal style as she goes to great lengths with her sorcery. Her white hair, full body and deep red lips leave her imprinted on audiences across the United Kingdom.

The Witch in the UK’s upcoming tour of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe

A theatrical scene from the play “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” featuring characters in elaborate costumes representing the White Witch on a raised platform and Aslan, surrounded by mystical lighting and a large circular backdrop.

Who could ever forget the one that brought eternal winter? Before Elsa there was a witch who cursed and ruled an entire land through an eternal winter. Only recently on stage, this classic British witch is also originally from a book. Though not caped in a cloak, or even wearing black of any kind, her outfit of the season is not one to be forgotten by audiences anytime soon as she towers over all that she reigns.

All photos gathered from official company websites of the mentioned shows including: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Unfortunate Musical, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Wicked.

Drew Janine

Live Sound Engineer -EUROPE

Janine has always been a part of music and performing. The first show that inspired her to go into theatre was the Velveteen Rabbit which she saw as a child, and Drew works to keep that magic alive as working behind the scenes in theatre as a live sound engineer. When Drew was accepted into an internship program for audio engineering at a recording studio, she jumped at the opportunity. That was at the start of 2020 and so much has happened since then, both in her career and in the world. Since then, Drew has taken several opportunities to work at recording studios, concerts, festivals, and even large theatres while spending time on tour across the North American continent and Europe. Drew’s favourite by far though has been the chance to work on Broadway and West End shows, as this was a dream come true. Drew is honoured to get to share these experiences from being inside the entertainment industry and hopes to inspire others to continue working in theatre.

Back to Home