‘Wicked’ Stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Say They’d Love to Reunite on Broadway

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As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for musical theater adaptations, I can’t help but feel thrilled about the prospect of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo collaborating again on another project. Their shared chemistry as Glinda and Elphaba in “Wicked” is simply electrifying, and their enthusiasm for originating new roles together is music to my ears!

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, both having confirmed their readiness, are eager to embark on another joint musical venture.

In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter regarding their upcoming movie, the actresses playing Glinda and Elphaba expressed their desire to perform on Broadway again, preferably as a duo.

Ariana Grande first appeared on Broadway in 2008 for the musical “13” by Jason Robert Brown, whereas Cynthia Erivo initially graced the stage in a 2015 revival of “The Color Purple.

As for my ideal Broadway part,” Erivo mused when queried, “I’m yearning to venture into uncharted territory. I’m eager to tackle a role that hasn’t been scripted before, something fresh and original. I’ve delved into numerous existing works, revivals, and now seems like the perfect moment for me to bring a new character to life.

That’s exciting! I really enjoy it,” Grande responded. “I’d be willing to help out in any way. I’m available, and I could even record something for you. Just joking, not joking! I’d truly love the chance to perform again. I’d love to share the stage with [Erivo] once more.

“I mean we could do Aida together,” said Erivo. “That would be fun.”

“I would fall out,” Grande replied with glee. “I would die.”

Elton John and Tim Rice’s musical Aida together originally ran on Broadway from 2000 to 2004. 

Elsewhere in the interview, Erivo opened up about the importance of self-confidence. 

Last year, when I sat down at THR’s songwriters roundtable alongside Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Jon Batiste, and Julia Michaels, the Wicked actress gave me a heartfelt piece of advice that resonated deeply. She urged me to embrace my power and talent as a songwriter, encouraging me to truly own it.

The concept of self-empowerment resonates particularly with the tale in Universal’s “Wicked,” a story that revolves around a young witch learning to harness her magical abilities to challenge and surpass earthly limitations.

When asked about when and how she claimed her power in her career, Erivo replied, ‘I felt I needed to do so quite early on.’ She explained that due to her appearance – being a queer black woman – she often encounters resistance. To navigate this resistance, she found it essential to be self-assured. Although this doesn’t guarantee easy access everywhere, it gives her the stability to continue moving forward. Eventually, she believes, the doors will open.

“The right ones will,” Grande added.

As the musical inspires viewers to embrace their individuality and self-confidence, it also conveys powerful themes about compassion, standing up for justice, and uplifting those marginalized by society. The cast spoke about the messages they wish viewers to absorb after watching the movie.

Grande expressed that empathy, the capacity for change, stands out as a significant theme to her. She hopes viewers will be compelled to consider others beyond themselves and contemplate how they can grow by challenging their perspectives, which she often emphasizes. She believes that one should strive for constant improvement and empathy is a key aspect of this.

Erivo also mentioned that this film might reassure individuals who feel out of place or unique, letting them know they belong and their uniqueness is what sets them apart. For those who struggle with understanding or connecting with others who are different, she encourages an open mind. Lastly, she hopes the movie inspires people to step out of their comfort zones and achieve feats beyond what others expect.

Watch the video above for more. Wicked flies into theaters Nov. 22.

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2024-11-20 03:25