Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Wicked performance is finally here! When the casting for Wicked was first announced, the internet erupted. Ariana Grande as Glinda? Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba? Two powerhouse vocalists from vastly different musical backgrounds stepping into two of the most iconic roles in Broadway history—this was bound to be a spectacle. But now that the Wicked movie is finally here, the big question is: Who delivered the most unforgettable performance?
Related Post: Ariana Grande vs Cynthia Erivo: A Showdown of Talent, Star Power, and Vocal Mastery
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Wicked Performance in Review
Dive into our in-depth review of their show-stopping vocals, acting, and chemistry in this highly anticipated musical adaptation. Who stole the spotlight? Find out now!
Ariana Grande as Glinda: A Pop Icon Takes on Broadway’s Most Beloved Role
Glinda the Good Witch is a character that requires charm, comedic timing, and dazzling vocals—qualities that Ariana Grande brings in spades. Known for her signature high ponytail, powerhouse vocals, and pop stardom, many questioned whether she could transition smoothly into the world of musical theater.
How Did She Perform?
✅ Vocal Strength: Ariana’s sweet, effortless soprano was a perfect fit for Glinda’s bright and bubbly songs, especially Popular and Thank Goodness.
✅ Acting Ability: While she has a background in TV acting (Victorious, Scream Queens), taking on a leading role in a major musical film was a big step. Her comic timing and natural charm made her an endearing Glinda.
✅ Stage Presence: She brought her pop-star charisma to the role but stayed true to the classic Broadway portrayal of Glinda.
🔹 Standout Moment: Ariana’s rendition of Popular was filled with energy, humor, and stunning high notes, cementing her as a worthy Glinda.
Did She Face Any Challenges?
- Some fans worried about her ability to handle the depth of Glinda’s transformation, especially in emotional scenes like For Good.
- Compared to Cynthia’s Broadway-level acting experience, Ariana’s dramatic range was under scrutiny.
Overall, Ariana delivered a spectacular vocal performance with infectious energy, making Glinda feel fresh and modern without straying too far from the original portrayal.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba: A Broadway Powerhouse in Her Element
Elphaba is one of the most vocally and emotionally demanding roles in musical theater. It requires not just a powerful voice, but raw emotion and commanding stage presence. Cynthia Erivo is no stranger to this kind of challenge—having already conquered Broadway, won a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy, and earned an Oscar nomination, she was expected to dominate this role.
How Did She Perform?
✅ Vocals: Cynthia’s deep, soul-infused belts gave Elphaba’s songs an even richer emotional weight. Her Defying Gravity was nothing short of breathtaking.
✅ Acting Ability: With her Broadway experience and award-winning dramatic skills, she captured Elphaba’s transformation from outcast to powerful sorceress flawlessly.
✅ Emotional Depth: Every expression, every line delivery—she made Elphaba feel more real than ever before.
🔹 Standout Moment: Defying Gravity. It was goosebump-inducing—the kind of performance that makes history in musical cinema.
Did She Face Any Challenges?
- Some fans questioned whether her voice would match Elphaba’s traditional Broadway sound. But instead of mimicking previous versions, she brought her own soulful interpretation to the character.
- Unlike Ariana, Cynthia isn’t a mainstream pop star, so some audiences weren’t as familiar with her work before Wicked.
Cynthia owned the role of Elphaba, proving once again why she is considered one of the most talented performers of her generation.
Who Stole the Show?
While Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo both brought their unique strengths to Wicked, the overall impact of their performances depended on what the audience was looking for.
✨ If you love charismatic, playful performances with a modern pop flair → Ariana Grande’s Glinda shined.
🔥 If you want a deeply emotional, powerhouse vocal performance → Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba stole the show.
Together, their chemistry made the magic of Wicked come alive on screen, ensuring that this adaptation will be talked about for years to come.
💬 What did YOU think of Ariana and Cynthia’s performances in Wicked? Drop a comment below!
