As the sun rises on the morning Oscar nominations are announced, excitement buzzes in the air, particularly around two stars who have captured audiences with their performances in the much-anticipated film adaptation of *Wicked*. Cynthia Erivo, stepping into the iconic role of Elphaba, and Ariana Grande, portraying her bubbly counterpart Glinda, are both on the move, resonating with the themes of their characters — not to mention their considerable talents. While Erivo heads from London to Park City to receive the Visionary Award at the Sundance Film Festival, Grande travels to Los Angeles, highlighting the contrast between their current journeys and the magical world they inhabit on screen.
Before immersing themselves in their new adventures, both actresses took time to engage with future generations of talent at the National Youth Theatre in London. Their participation in an “in conversation” event, moderated by Paul Roseby, CEO and artistic director of the NYT, brought together aspiring performers and seasoned industry professionals alike. Many notable figures attended, enriching the atmosphere of artistic discussion, while Erivo and Grande connected intimately with the students present. Reflecting on the experience, their palpable joy in engaging with the talent of tomorrow stood out against the backdrop of their own impressive careers, leaving an inspiring message about the importance of mentorship and community.
In an entertaining exchange, the actresses shared insights about the filmmaking process behind *Wicked*. A humorous misconception that much of the production relied on green screens was debunked by Grande and Erivo. Erivo, with a gleam in her eye, pointed out that the film was grounded in a tactile reality; elaborate sets were constructed to bring the enchanting world of the musical to life. Grande emphasized this authenticity by referencing the impressive details, such as the inclusion of a moat, that contributed to the film’s immersive experience. It’s this attention to detail that transports audiences, allowing them to suspend disbelief and explore the whimsical narrative fully.
Witnessing the chemistry between Grande and Erivo is captivating; their playful banter reveals a camaraderie that transcends their professional collaboration. Their interactions were laced with humor, as both actresses took turns teasing each other about their stage techniques and experiences. Erivo demonstrated her vocal technique, showcasing her ability to harness energy using her back, a point that drew laughter and jest from Grande. Particularly engaging was the moment when Erivo invited a young girl named Darling onto the stage to illustrate her singing technique—highlighting not just their skill, but their commitment to nurturing budding talent.
This playful teasing hints at the deeper harmony in their partnership, underscoring a perfect contrast between Erivo’s seriousness and Grande’s light-heartedness. “It’s a yin-and-yang thing,” Grande noted, capturing the essence of their dynamic. Their friendship resonates well beyond the performance, providing a sense of comfort and mutual growth that enriches their work on *Wicked*.
As they look to the future, both actresses have made promises to return to the Holloway Road, reflecting their connection to the National Youth Theatre and commitment to the nurturing of upcoming talent. Their journey in *Wicked* is just beginning, yet their collaboration is already marked by camaraderie, mentorship, and a passion for their art form that is palpable to audiences. With an Oscar nominations reveal but a few hours away, this promising duo, now intertwined with the legacies of their roles, is set not just to entertain, but also to inspire.
In a world where narratives often feel confined, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande exemplify the breaking of boundaries in both performance and character. As they navigate their professional journeys and personal connections, it becomes evident that the magic of *Wicked* extends far beyond the camera, touching lives and shaping the next generation of artists along the way.
