On this a recent episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with the extraordinary Jenna Bainbridge, one of Broadway’s brightest talents and a cast member of the smash-hit musical Wicked. Jenna’s story is not just about performing on the biggest stages in the world—it’s about perseverance, artistry, and carving out a place in an industry that hasn’t always welcomed performers with disabilities.
Her perspective is refreshing, powerful, and deeply human. This conversation stays with you.
From Colorado Roots to the Emerald City
Jenna walks us through her journey from her early days of performing to stepping into the magical world of Wicked. For any Broadway fan, hearing what it’s like to live backstage at one of the most beloved musicals of all time is pure gold. She shares:
How she first fell in love with theater
What it was like joining Wicked
The rehearsal process and what keeps the show feeling alive after years on Broadway
Her favorite onstage moments (and some unexpected backstage ones!)
Her enthusiasm for the craft radiates through every word.
Redefining Representation on Broadway
One of the most compelling parts of our conversation is Jenna’s mission to increase visibility for disabled performers. As a wheelchair user and an advocate for disability inclusion, she speaks candidly about navigating an industry that was not built with every body in mind.
She opens up about:
The barriers she’s faced
The shifts happening in the theater world
Why accessibility enhances—not limits—creative storytelling
The impact representation has on young performers and audiences
Jenna’s activism isn’t separate from her artistry—it powers it.
Channeling Strength, Grace, and Humor
Jenna has a way of balancing vulnerability with wit, and reflection with joy. She talks about the realities of performing eight shows a week, finding community in the theater world, and holding onto her sense of authenticity amid the whirlwind of Broadway.
Her stories remind us that artists are human first—and that what they bring to the stage comes from everything they’ve lived through.
A Wicked Experience Like You’ve Never Heard
Whether you’ve seen Wicked once or a dozen times, Jenna’s insider perspective brings new depth to the show’s themes of friendship, identity, and defying expectations. You’ll walk away with a renewed appreciation for:
The technical precision behind the magic
The emotional endurance needed to sustain long-running productions
The camaraderie between cast members
The responsibility of telling a story that has touched millions
Her voice gives fans a reason to fall in love with Wicked all over again.
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is inspiring, heartfelt, and full of Broadway sparkle. If you love theater—or stories of resilience, authenticity, and finding your voice—this conversation with Jenna Bainbridge is a must-listen.