In The Haus: Adam Murphy
From school talent shows to starring in major musicals, Adam Murphy’s journey in the performing arts is a captivating story of talent and perseverance. Known for his versatile performances and comedic flair, Adam has made a significant mark on Australian theatre. Currently dazzling audiences as Dr. Dillamond in ‘Wicked’, he brings a unique charm to every role he plays.
In our latest In The Haus feature, we chat with Adam about his early inspirations, career-defining moments, and what it takes to maintain a thriving career in theatre. Join us as Adam shares his insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring performers. Get ready to be inspired by his dedication and passion for the craft.
We’d love to know more about the beginning of your career – where and how did you get your start?
My first experience performing for an audience was in a school talent quest. I was 8 years old, a bit on the quiet side and didn’t feel any need to be the centre of attention. However, I had recently seen a Marx Brothers film on TV and had an urge to dress up as Groucho Marx and enter the contest. I didn’t have any idea of what I’d do for the act. My only goal was to get the look right with a borrowed oversized suit, glasses, a homemade paper cigar, painted-on eyebrows and moustache, a silly walk and an 8-year-old version of his voice. I ended up improvising the whole sketch, but it went well and made people laugh. I even managed to win first place, receiving a snake-shaped Rubik’s cube as a reward.
I believe that early experience of, putting myself in someone else’s shoes, creating something from nothing, getting a reaction from an audience and being applauded for it, started my interest in performing. As a teenager, I started performing in school productions and amateur plays and musicals. I wasn’t sure exactly what I’d like to do for a career, but I knew it had to be something to do with the performing arts.
My first professional job was as Elwood Blues in the NZ production of The Official Tribute to the Blues Brothers. I was lucky to get this job as I’d been working in a café in Wellington (getting nowhere) then out of the blue I was asked to audition for the show as the producers had received a recommendation that they should see me. Working well with others and having a good reputation goes a long way in this industry.
What or who were some of your early influences or inspirations that shaped your career?
As a kid, I wanted to be either Jerry Lewis, Superman or James Bond. A clown, a hero, or a spy. When I think about it, that’s a decent range for an actor to aspire to. I would also watch comedy sketch shows like Monty Python or Fast Forward and would often perform sketches at school in drama class or school productions. I think obviously the humour was enticing but it was the many different characters one actor would play that excited me as a performer. The one thing in my career that I’m thankful for is that I’ve had the chance to play many different characters.
What are some of the most defining moments or milestones in your career so far?
Some defining moments would be:
- Being cast in The 10th Anniversary production of Les Misérables proved to myself that my singing is not as bad as I thought.
- Playing Aldolpho in the MTC production The Drowsy Chaperone and receiving Helpmann and Green Room nominations.
- The privilege of playing Bruce Bechdel in STC/MTC production of Fun Home, which stretched me as an actor and singer but proved to be a very rewarding experience.
- Last year I celebrated the Milestone of being in this industry for 30 years.
What is a quirky fact about you, or something people wouldn’t expect about your story?
Something people may not realise about me is that I left home at the age of 15. I managed to board with other families and get by without too many problems. In fact, I would say it was less stressful boarding at someone else’s house than living at home. I think it taught me that there are always going to be obstacles in life and the only way to overcome them is to pick yourself up and move forward.
What are you currently working on and how has that creative process been?
Since July 2023 I have been playing Dr Dillamond in Wicked. It has been rewarding to walk in the footsteps of friends before me who have played in this wonderful show. My task was to find my version of this character and feel that I could recreate it honestly show after show.
What’s in your rehearsal bag that you can’t go without?
Script, pencils, highlighters, snacks, water, and my phone on silent.
Do you have a reading, teaching/advice, institution or resource that changed your life/perspective, which you’d recommend to others?
Any training institution is great because it is an opportunity to work on your craft for a concentrated amount of time. I believe I have learned something from every job I’ve worked on. My singing technique comes from suggestions I’ve received from music directors. My acting technique relies not only on instinct but also on my fellow actors and the direction I receive from directors. Sometimes you can discover what works best and sometimes you learn what not to do. I also think the ability to play and create in a rehearsal room gets the best results but don’t be afraid to give yourself the permission to try something and fail. The first idea isn’t necessarily always the best one.
What advice would you give to a young person today aspiring to walk in your shoes?
There’s more than one way to achieve what you are trying to achieve. Don’t be dismayed by knockbacks as they are going to happen for your entire career. Know yourself. Know your strengths and work on your weaknesses. Be honest with yourself. You are not going to be suitable for every role. No role is too small. Enjoy the process and keep your passion for performing alive.
What are your future aspirations or projects that you’re excited about? Do you have a dream role?
I’ve been asked many times “What’s your dream role?” The truth is, at least for me, roles have come my way, and they weren’t even on my radar. In fact, the joy of discovering a new show or character feels more rewarding than stepping into a show I’ve been familiar with.
As for the future, I’m looking forward to whatever comes my way whether it be in plays, musicals, TV, Film, or voiceovers. Maintaining my career with some exciting surprise jobs thrown in is good enough for me.
Theatre Haus is the ‘home of theatre’, where, what or who do you call home?
For the past 25 years, I have called Melbourne home. 22 years of which I have lived in Eltham.
My true “home” is with my wife and 3 kids. As long as they are with me I’m home. They are my everything and I love our life together.
Catch Adam Murphy onstage in the Australian tour of ‘Wicked’, currently playing at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, before heading to Brisbane’s QPAC in September and Perth’s Crown Theatre in December. Grab your tickets at the official ‘Wicked’ website. See Adam prepare for the role by following his Instagram account here.
Want to feature in our In The Haus series? Email [email protected]
