Wicked :: Embracing Individuality and Redefining Villainy with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo
There’s a kind of magic that only a story like Wicked can conjure—a tale that flips the script, challenges what we think we know, and leaves us deeply inspired. The musical adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s novel gave us a reimagined Wizard of Oz, one where the Wicked Witch of the West transforms from a feared villain into a misunderstood and fiercely independent woman. But when the highly anticipated film adaptation cast Wicked into the spotlight once again, it brought two incredible performers to the forefront: Ariana Grande as Glinda and the incomparable Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba.
These two powerhouses brought new life to an already iconic story, and their performances added depth and brilliance to the themes of individuality, friendship, and empowerment. The themes in Wicked are so significant and Erivo and Grande made this beloved tale even more extraordinary.
From Villain to Individual: A Masterclass by Cynthia Erivo
In the original Wizard of Oz, the Wicked Witch of the West was a one-dimensional villain. But in Wicked, we meet Elphaba—someone whose “wickedness” is a reflection of how society treats her for being different. Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is nothing short of transformative. Known for her ability to embody roles with emotional intensity and vocal brilliance, Erivo turned Elphaba’s journey into a raw, heartbreaking, and empowering story of self-acceptance.
When Erivo sang Defying Gravity, it wasn’t just a performance—it was a declaration. Her voice soared, capturing the defiance, hope, and pain that define Elphaba’s character. Watching her command the screen as Elphaba embraced her individuality reminded us all of the power of rejecting societal expectations and staying true to ourselves.
Erivo’s Elphaba teaches us that labels like “wicked” or “different” are often just projections of fear and misunderstanding. Her story encourages us—and our children—to celebrate what makes us unique, even when the world pushes back.
Ariana Grande: The Effervescent Glinda
Balancing Elphaba’s depth is the sparkly, bubbly Glinda, played with charm and wit by Ariana Grande. Known for her incredible vocal range and magnetic stage presence, Grande brought warmth and humor to Glinda while also revealing the character’s emotional complexity. Her performance reminded us that even the “good” characters have their flaws and vulnerabilities.
Grande’s rendition of Popular was every bit as delightful as I hoped, blending comedic timing with a sense of sincerity that made Glinda feel relatable. And her chemistry with Erivo added richness to the story of their unlikely friendship, showcasing how two very different people can change each other for the better. I did not have this seamless duo in my bingo card. They were the perfect pair.
Grande’s Glinda shows that even those who seem to have it all together can learn and grow. Her friendship with Elphaba teaches us to look beyond surface-level differences and embrace the beauty of diverse relationships.
Defying Gravity: The Heart of the Story
The show-stopping anthem Defying Gravity is the emotional and thematic peak of Wicked, and Erivo’s performance in the film brought it to breathtaking new heights. When Elphaba decides to “defy gravity” and forge her own path, it’s a powerful moment of self-liberation. Erivo’s ability to channel raw emotion into her vocals made this scene unforgettable.
Watching her rise—literally and metaphorically—reminded us that being true to ourselves is the most courageous act we can undertake. Her Elphaba wasn’t just defying gravity; she was defying expectations, labels, and a world that tried to hold her back.
It is important to teach your children to follow their passions and trust their instincts.This is difficult for me as a parent because I truly have to yield my plans for my children to embrace their interests, talents, and needs. Just as Erivo’s Elphaba found her strength in embracing her identity, we can all inspire our kids to be unapologetically themselves.
At its core, Wicked is a story of friendship—messy, complicated, and deeply meaningful. Erivo and Grande’s chemistry on screen captured the nuances of Elphaba and Glinda’s bond. They reminded us that true friendship isn’t about agreeing on everything; it’s about learning from each other, growing together, and standing by one another even when the world seems against you.
Their portrayal of the iconic duet For Good was especially moving. Grande’s crystal-clear voice harmonized beautifully with Erivo’s soulful tones, creating a moment that felt deeply personal and universally resonant.
Friendship is about accepting each other’s differences and finding strength in them. Teach your children to build connections based on kindness, respect, and understanding.
As moms, we often feel the pressure to conform to societal norms—not just for ourselves, but for our children too. Wicked reminds us that breaking the mold can lead to incredible growth. Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is a testament to the strength it takes to stand out in a world that demands conformity.
- Encourage your kids to embrace their quirks and talents.
- Share stories (like Wicked) that celebrate individuality and resilience.
- Lead by example by embracing your own imperfections and chasing your dreams.
With Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo at the helm, the film adaptation of Wicked gave us a fresh perspective on a beloved story. Erivo’s performance as Elphaba was nothing short of iconic, reminding us of the power of individuality, while Grande’s Glinda brought a sense of fun and depth to the tale. Together, they redefined what it means to be “good” or “wicked” and showed us the beauty of embracing complexity.
