Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Open Oscars With ‘Wicked’ Anthem “Defying Gravity” - Hollywood Reporter

In an electrifying start to the 94th Academy Awards ceremony, 'Wicked' co-stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande stirred the audience with a rendition of the musical's iconic anthem "Defying Gravity." Both Erivo and Grande, who play Elphaba and Glinda respectively in the Broadway adaptation, paid a fitting tribute to the 'Wizard of Oz' with their opening medley. Their performance, which was both a nod to the beloved classic and a celebration of the modern musical, set the tone for an evening focused on the evolution of storytelling in the film industry.

The choice of "Defying Gravity" as the opening number was not only a reflection of the co-stars' roles in the popular musical, but also a symbol of the changing dynamics in Hollywood. As more diverse voices are making their way into the mainstream, the industry itself is 'defying gravity,' challenging old norms and pushing for a more inclusive future. Erivo and Grande's performance served as a powerful reminder of this shift, highlighting the evening's theme of transformation and progress.

The 94th Academy Awards ceremony opened with a power-packed performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the co-stars of the famed Broadway musical, 'Wicked'. The duo, who are on-screen representations of Elphaba and Glinda respectively, paid a rich tribute to the 'Wizard of Oz' with their opening medley. Their rendition of the much-loved anthem, "Defying Gravity" from 'Wicked', set a high bar for the rest of the evening.

Grande, known for her wide vocal range and impressive falsetto, harmonized beautifully with Erivo, a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy award-winning actress and singer. Their voices blended in an exquisite symphony that seemed to fill the entire Dolby Theatre, drawing thunderous applause from the audience. The performance was a testament to their talent and the bond they share as co-stars.

The song choice, "Defying Gravity", was a significant one. Not only is it a pivotal song from 'Wicked', but it also encapsulates the spirit of resilience, strength, and freedom. This resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were visibly moved. The performance was both an homage to the classic 'Wizard of Oz' and a celebration of the enduring popularity of 'Wicked'.

Through their performance, Erivo and Grande effortlessly transported the audience to the magical world of Oz, while also setting the stage for an evening of glamour, artistry, and cinematic celebration. As the opening act of the prestigious Oscars, their performance was a poignant reminder of the power of music and storytelling in film.

The opening performance was a medley that paid homage to the 'Wizard of Oz'. Erivo and Grande, in their roles as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, took the audience on a nostalgic journey back to the magical land of Oz. The performances were not just a tribute to the classic, but also a showcase of the duo's incredible talent and chemistry.

Erivo, a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy winner, showcased her powerful vocal range and emotional depth as she took on the role of Elphaba. Her performance was raw, passionate, and deeply moving. It was a testament to her talent as a performer and her deep understanding of her character.

Grande, a Grammy-winning artist with a vast fan base, brought her own unique charm to the role of Glinda. Her performance was light-hearted, whimsical, and full of energy. It was a perfect contrast to Erivo's intense portrayal of Elphaba, creating a dynamic and engaging performance that captured the audience's attention.

The duo's powerful rendition of 'Defying Gravity', the iconic anthem from 'Wicked', was the highlight of the performance. The powerful harmonies and emotional depth of the performance brought the audience to their feet, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.

Erivo and Grande's performance was more than just a showstopping opener; it was a heartfelt tribute to the 'Wizard of Oz'. The classic film has long been heralded as a cinematic masterpiece and a cornerstone of American pop culture. Their rendition of "Defying Gravity" delivered all the magic and allure of the original, while infusing it with their own unique sparkle.

According to Dr. Rebecca Williams, a professor of Film and Television Studies at the University of Glasgow, "The 'Wicked' co-stars' tribute was a powerful nod to the cultural significance of the 'Wizard of Oz'. Their performance not only reinvigorated the classic anthem, but also highlighted the enduring relevance of the film in contemporary Hollywood."

Their homage to the 'Wizard of Oz' was not just about its cultural significance, but also about its impact on the musical theatre genre. "The 'Wizard of Oz' has always been a source of inspiration for many musicals, including 'Wicked'. By opening the Oscars with 'Defying Gravity', Erivo and Grande have shown the continuous influence and importance of this classic film," added Dr. Williams.

In summation, the 'Wicked' co-stars, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who play Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, delivered an unforgettable opening at the Oscars. Their rendition of the 'Wicked' anthem "Defying Gravity," was not just a performance, but a tribute to the timeless 'Wizard of Oz.'

Through their harmonious voices and stunning stage presence, they reminded us of the power of music and storytelling in film. Their performance set a high bar for the rest of the event, encapsulating the magic of Hollywood in one beautiful medley.

This opening act will surely be remembered as one of the highlights of the evening, proving once again the enduring appeal of musical theatre and its ability to captivate audiences of all ages.

Source: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cynthia-erivo-ariana-grande-wicked-defying-gravity-oscars-2025-1236151829/