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.
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.
Connection to Aretha Franklin's Music
Erivo's early exposure to Aretha Franklin's music deeply influenced her artistic journey. Growing up in South London, she often listened to various genres on Magic FM, where she first discovered Aretha's powerful voice. Learning about Franklin's breathing techniques was essential for Erivo, as she recognized how breath can convey different meanings in a song. This understanding allowed her to honor Franklin's legacy while performing, emphasizing the artistry behind Franklin's unique vocal style.
Impact of Her Catholic Upbringing
Despite growing up in a Roman Catholic household, Erivo explored diverse musical influences, including gospel. She joined a church choir when her family moved to East London and began to incorporate gospel songs into the repertoire, though it led to some conflict with church authorities. Her passion for gospel music shaped her artistic identity, emphasizing the importance of expression through song. This background helped her appreciate the emotional depth in music, which she later channeled into her performances.
Education and Personal Growth
Erivo's education at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) was a transformative experience that expanded her horizons in acting. Initially unaware of the possibilities available in drama school, she embraced her unique talents in music and performance once she arrived. The curriculum introduced her to diverse playwrights like August Wilson and composers like Sondheim, which resonated with her experiences and identity. This education not only refined her craft but also deepened her appreciation for storytelling and the power of music in theater.
The British actor and singer played abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, and Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Now she's defying gravity as Elphaba in Wicked. She spoke with Terry Gross in 2021 about some of her roles and her vocal training.
Also, Ken Tucker shares his picks for great Christmas music, and David Bianculli reviews the Amazon Prime series The Sticky.