‘Wicked’ actor and disability...

LEWISBURG — Actress and disability advocate Marissa Bode will appear at Bucknell University’s annual student lectureship on April 20 in the Weis Center for the Performing Arts.Bode made her feature film debut while becoming the first wheelchair user to play Nessarose Thropp in the film adaptations of the musical "Wicked" (2024) and its sequel "Wicked: For Good" (2025). Bode will participate in a moderated discussion with Krystin Ipina, Class of 2026, animal behavior, at the event, sponsored by the Bucknell Student Lectureship Committee, at 7 p.m. April 20.Bode has been acting since age 8 and trained at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. In addition to her work on screen, she is widely recognized for her advocacy for authentic disability representation in Hollywood.She said she is proud to be the first wheelchair user to portray Nessarose. The highly successful Wicked films were directed by Jon M. Chu and featured an ensemble cast including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh.“The Student Lectureship Committee is especially excited to welcome Marissa Bode,” Erin Paschal, dean of student life, said. “Her work and advocacy for authentic disability representation will offer an important and inspiring perspective for our campus community.”Each year, the Student Lectureship Committee hosts a speaker to engage students, faculty, staff and community members in timely and meaningful conversations. Past speakers have included prominent figures from entertainment, media, public life and sports, including Bill Nye the Science Guy, actor Josh Peck, comedian Chelsea Handler, businessman Jerry Greenfield, Olympic gymnast Ally Raisman and NFL star Saquon Barkley.Tickets are free and now available for Bucknell students, faculty and staff. A limited number of 200 tickets will be available for the general public beginning at 6 p.m. at the Weis Center box office on the evening of the lecture.— THE DAILY ITEM