Cynthia Erivo has learned to use being an “outsider” as her “power”.
The 37-year-old actress portrays Elphaba in new musical ‘Wicked‘ and she can see a lot of parallels between herself and her alter ego, not just in their backgrounds but how they have responded to adversity. The production has already garnered attention for its innovative approach to filming and diverse casting choices.
She recently told Britain’s OK! magazine: “I think what I discovered – and I guess it surprised me – is there are so many connective tissues between myself and Elphaba and the lives we live.” Her candid discussion about personal connections to the role has resonated with fans worldwide.
“Her relationship with her father is fractured and different and difficult, as is mine. She is the older sister, as am I.” The authenticity in her portrayal draws from these deep personal parallels, adding layers of depth to the character.
“But also, in the grand scheme of things, knowing what it feels like to be an outsider, knowing what it feels like to be different; to be the one on the outside, to be a Black queer woman playing this green woman has its parallels. I know what it is to not necessarily feel like the world is necessarily made for you or makes space for you – and having to reckon with that, but also find ways of accepting it for yourself, accepting who you are fully and using that as your power.” Her interpretation brings new dimensions to the beloved character.
Cynthia, like her co-star Ariana Grande, sang live during filming for ‘Wicked’, and she admitted it was very “demanding” on her body. This decision to record live vocals sets a new standard for musical film productions.
“The songs really demanded a lot of my body to be physical. And because I was in the air doing most of these songs, except for ‘I’m Not That Girl’, I was in a wire and a harness for most of the songs at some point. And obviously, by ‘Defying Gravity’, I was in the wires the whole time. In that sense, I had to make sure my body was prepared to sing in the air, which essentially means there’s no ground beneath me.” The technical complexity required months of intensive training and preparation.
“I’m in a harness, there’s a corset on me and I’m flipping over, so I have to figure out how to place it and where to put the air and how to breathe and how to make the notes as powerful as I needed to when I have nothing to push off.” Her dedication involved extensive physical conditioning and vocal coaching.
The film’s production team worked closely with experts in theatrical rigging and vocal performance to ensure both safety and artistic excellence. This collaborative approach has resulted in stunning visual sequences that complement the emotional depth of the story.
This adaptation represents a landmark moment in musical theater history, bringing the beloved Broadway show to global audiences. Erivo’s portrayal combines athletic prowess with vocal excellence, setting new standards for musical film performances.
The movie’s commitment to live singing during complex physical sequences demonstrates the evolution of film musical production. Industry experts have praised the technical achievements, noting how they enhance the storytelling without compromising the emotional core of the narrative.
Early reviews highlight Erivo’s ability to maintain pitch-perfect vocals while executing demanding aerial choreography. Her performance has been noted for bringing fresh perspectives to the character while honoring the original’s beloved elements.
The production’s attention to detail extends beyond the technical aspects, with costume design and makeup artistry creating a visually stunning interpretation of the iconic character. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the film contributes to its powerful message of self-acceptance and empowerment.
