Fresh Air
Cynthia Erivo Sings With 'A Bit Of A Smile'
Dec 13, 2024
Cynthia Erivo, a British actor and singer acclaimed for her roles in Harriet and Wicked, shares her remarkable journey through music and performance. She delves into the significance of breath in singing and how it influences emotional storytelling. Erivo also reflects on her childhood experiences, her complex family relationships, and her mother's inspiring journey from Nigeria. The conversation expands to lighthearted topics, like the quirky challenges of performing arts and a whimsical miniseries about a maple syrup heist.
45:56
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Cynthia Erivo's journey from the UK to Broadway highlights her incredible versatility as an actress and singer, earning her major accolades.
- Her education at RADA and exposure to diverse musical influences, especially gospel, have deeply shaped her artistic identity and storytelling abilities.
Deep dives
Cynthia Erivo's Rise to Fame
Cynthia Erivo gained recognition after moving to the U.S. in 2016, where she starred in the Broadway revival of 'The Color Purple,' earning a Tony Award. Her performance as Harriet Tubman in the film 'Harriet' brought her an Oscar nomination, alongside her nomination for the film's original song 'Stand Up,' which she co-wrote and performed. Erivo has also portrayed Aretha Franklin in the miniseries 'Genius: Aretha,' showcasing her versatility as an actress and singer. In addition to acting, she released a children's book titled 'Remember to Dream, Ebere' and an album titled 'Chapter One, Verse One,' highlighting her multifaceted talents.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
