As the season of accolades approaches, the spotlight is poised to shine brightly on the fantastical duo of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Known for their respective roles as Elphaba and Glinda in the much-anticipated film adaptation of the renowned musical “Wicked,” the actresses find themselves in a unique situation. The Oscar nominations, significant markers in the film industry, will be announced on a Thursday morning that they won’t be present for, as they embark on separate journeys from London. This juxtaposition of career milestones and personal commitments showcases not only their dedication to their craft but also their exuberant personalities that seem to thrive even amidst the chaos of award season.
Cynthia Erivo is heading to Park City to receive the esteemed Visionary Award at the Sundance Film Festival. This ceremony, known for celebrating innovation and creativity in cinema, is a fitting backdrop for an actress who has carved out a space as an artistic force in the industry. Grande, on the other hand, is making her way to Los Angeles, preparing for the whirlwind of events that accompany the Oscars. Despite their commitments, both women remain grounded, engaged and focused on their experiences. The day before their travels, they made time to connect with young aspiring actors at the National Youth Theatre in London, embodying a sense of purpose that extends beyond their immediate careers.
The atmosphere at the National Youth Theatre event was electric, fueled by the presence of budding talent. With a packed auditorium and notable figures like television pioneer Dawn Airey in attendance, the event highlighted the support and emphasis on nurturing young creatives. Open dialogues with Paul Roseby, the CEO and artistic director of the National Youth Theatre, inspired the students, reminding them that the world of theater and film is rich with opportunities. The audience was treated to insights from along the storied careers of the actresses, effectively bridging the gap between established careers and the aspirations of young artists.
While engaging with the students, both Grande and Erivo offered a captivating glimpse into the making of “Wicked.” Contrary to common misconceptions, Erivo and Grande revealed that the film relied heavily on fully realized sets instead of extensive green screen technology. Their playful banter left the audience in stitches as Grande pointed out Erivo’s vibrant green costume, illustrating the physical demands of their roles. With vivid imagery, Erivo recounted the meticulous attention to detail, highlighting elements like the Shiz School and even a functioning moat, that were crafted to immerse viewers in their enchanting world.
Erivo and Grande’s undeniable chemistry on stage translates seamlessly into their interactions off-camera. Their dynamic is akin to a well-rehearsed duet, balancing serious and comedic undertones with ease. During the event, the two shared tips on vocal technique, with Erivo demonstrating her unique approach to breath management by involving a young audience member named Darling. This lighthearted moment emphasized the nurturing environment they foster, promoting not just artistic expression but also the importance of physicality in performance. Grande, never shy to crack jokes, filled the space with laughter, showcasing her natural comedic prowess and making their joint appearance unforgettable.
A Promising Future
As they closed their engaging session, both actresses expressed a commitment to return and support the National Youth Theatre in the future, perhaps when the new installment, “Wicked: For Good,” premieres. Their presence expressed not just their individual talents but also a dedication to uplifting the next generation of performers. Whether they’re soaring through the skies of award season or building connections with up-and-coming talent, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are proving that their artistry is as multifaceted as their characters, embodying the underlying essence of what it means to thrive within an enchanting, yet demanding industry.