From Haines His Way interview:
Q: Obviously at some point it was decided to have Idina Menzel do the role you'd done at the reading I attended. That is, I'd have to imagine, a difficult situation - but you decided to stay with the show and to cover the role. Tell us what you can about dealing with it (Jennifer Paz had a similar situation with Flower Drum Song, and I thought she was much better than who ultimately did the role - I know, sacrilege, but there you are).
SB: I'll be honest. I was heart broken. I felt like I had invested so much time , and beyond that, given my heart to the project and the role. The response from those that attended the LA readings I performed in were overwhelming and I just felt like this role was everything I had dreamed of. Every step of the way I was getting more and more passionate about the project and more and more excited for it's future. I also have been around the block once or twice and know that NOTHING is for sure or in "the bag" until contracts are signed and the curtain goes up with you on stage. So when Stephen called and told me that they were going with Idina because she had experience in mounting an original Broadway musical, I had no recourse. I didn't have any Broadway credits. I knew in my heart that I was ready to do the role whether it was on the Universal Lot or The Gershwin stage, but the decision had been made. So, I accepted the role of her understudy/cover in hopes that when I went on, I'd be able to make an impression that would lead to the next phase of my career. I looked at it as paying my dues...AGAIN!!!!! But I also knew it was the opportunity to get me to Broadway and open more doors. It wasn't just a job, it was a career move.
She also mentions in the Grimmerie that she understudied Idina in San Francisco and went on once but "wasn't able to do the Broadway run. And that was literally my cry, 'Oh my gosh, but I just want it! You know, I just want it!'" And she talks about how that is similiar to Elphaba who has goals but outside things get in her way.
She also says in the first interview that she was in rehearsals for Wicked in NYC and she went to audition for BFO during her lunch break.
Jim Caruso: You know, you are doing Wicked.
Stephanie J Block: I am!
Jim: Is anyone coming to that old thing?
Updated On: 11/15/05 at 09:59 AM
). Very unassuming person, our Stephanie! 
