Ariana Grande, an acclaimed actress and singer known for her role as Glinda in 'Wicked,' chats with Tonya Mosley about her journey through music and theater. She fondly recalls singing karaoke with her family and the influence of iconic vocalists like Whitney and Mariah. Grande discusses the joy and challenges of auditioning for 'Wicked' and the importance of mentorship. She shares insights into the emotional authenticity of live singing and highlights the empowering community found in the world of theater.
Ariana Grande's early experience with the musical Wicked inspired her artistic aspirations, highlighting themes of sisterhood and individuality that resonated deeply with her.
The rigorous audition process for Glinda showcased her dedication to live singing, adding emotional authenticity to performances and honoring musical theater traditions.
Deep dives
Ariana Grande's Transformative Experience with Wicked
Ariana Grande describes her first encounter with the musical Wicked at the age of 10 as life-changing, marking a significant divide in her life before and after experiencing it. The show resonated deeply with her due to its themes of sisterhood and unconditional love, portraying complex friendships that develop despite differences. Grande emphasizes how the infectious laughter and the music captivated her, highlighting the impact of Glinda and Elphaba's relationship as it explored deeper notions of acceptance and celebration of individuality. This early exposure ignited her passion for both theater and music, shaping her artistic aspirations.
The Audition Journey
Grande reveals the rigorous audition process she underwent for the role of Glinda, completing three auditions that tested her vocal abilities for both Glinda and Elphaba. This demanding process included preparation with her vocal coach to master the coloratura soprano style, requiring significant vocal training distinct from her usual pop style. She recounts the excitement of receiving support from original cast member Kristin Chenoweth, who encouraged her to inject her own interpretation into the character. Ultimately, Grande's persistence and dedication culminated in her successful casting as Glinda, showcasing her commitment to embodying the role authentically.
Complex Characters and Relatable Themes
In discussing the characters of Glinda and Elphaba, Grande notes that both represent aspects within everyone, making their struggles and triumphs universally relatable. She articulates how Glinda embodies societal expectations while Elphaba represents rebellion and individuality, allowing audiences to see reflections of themselves in both characters. This multifaceted lens enhances the emotional depth of the story, evoking personal connections as viewers identify with the themes of acceptance and transformation. Grande believes this complexity is a crucial reason for Wicked's lasting impact and resonance with audiences of all ages.
The Importance of Live Singing On Set
Grande highlights the necessity of live singing during the filming of Wicked, asserting that it added authenticity and emotional depth to their performances. Both she and her co-star Cynthia Erivo insisted on singing live to capture the raw emotions tied to their characters' journeys, fostering a genuine connection with the material. This commitment not only honored the traditions of musical theater but also allowed for spontaneous, heartfelt moments that pre-recorded tracks couldn’t replicate. The on-set environment was transformed into a recording studio, enabling them to deliver powerful performances while maintaining the spontaneity required for their roles.
As a kid, Ariana Grande loved singing karaoke with her family. "I looked up to Whitney and Mariah and Celine endlessly," she says. "I think that's a large part of the reason why I learned to sing." She spoke with Tonya Mosley about auditioning for and landing the role of Glinda in Wicked, her signature whistle register, and how she quiets the voice of self-doubt.