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The highly anticipated Wicked movie, based on the beloved Broadway musical, features a range of talented actors, including several well-known faces from both the West End and broader musical theater world. The casting for this movie has been one of the most talked-about aspects of the project, with many fans eager to see which theater veterans will be bringing their expertise to the big screen. While the focus remains on the two leads, Elphaba and Glinda, there are several musical theater stars involved in the movie, some of whom have made their names on the West End stage.
Here’s a breakdown of some key figures to look out for:
1. Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba)
While Cynthia Erivo is primarily known for her work on Broadway and in film, she also has deep ties to the West End. She won widespread acclaim for her role in The Color Purple, both on Broadway and the West End, and she has also performed in The UK’s West End production of The Color Purple. Erivo’s voice and acting skills are central to her portrayal of Elphaba, a role that requires immense vocal power and emotional depth. Her West End experience will likely bring an added layer of intensity to her performance.
2. Ariana Grande (Glinda)
Ariana Grande, another of the film’s big stars, is not traditionally a West End performer, but her background in musical theater as a child and her immense vocal talent (showcased in numerous Broadway-style performances on stage and TV) has made her a natural fit for the role of Glinda. While she has not performed in the West End, her past performances in shows like 13: The Musical and her extensive work in the pop and theater communities have made her a sought-after name for musical roles. Her chemistry with Erivo and her ability to handle the vocal demands of Glinda’s role will be fascinating to watch.
3. Jeff Goldblum (The Wizard)
Jeff Goldblum, known for his iconic film roles, will play the Wizard. While Goldblum is not a traditional West End star, his experience in musical theater productions, particularly as a performer and his jazz background, gives him an unusual edge for the role. He will bring a blend of charm and complexity to the character, offering a different take on the Wizard’s persona.
4. Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible)
Michelle Yeoh, who plays Madame Morrible, is another high-profile actor who brings prestige and depth to the movie. While she is best known for her work in film, her extensive training in dance and her roles in musical theater productions like The King and I add to her ability to make the character of Madame Morrible more dynamic and complex. Yeoh is no stranger to performance, and her talent will likely shine through in her portrayal of this iconic role.
5. Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero)
Jonathan Bailey is an actor known for his work in the West End, particularly in Company and Les Misérables. His role as Fiyero, the handsome and charming love interest, will undoubtedly benefit from his stage presence. Bailey’s Broadway and West End experience has already earned him acclaim for his strong stage presence and musicality. His take on Fiyero will offer a mix of heartthrob appeal and emotional complexity as he becomes more deeply entangled in the lives of Elphaba and Glinda.
6. Broadway and West End Chorus Members
In addition to the lead stars, the Wicked film features a host of chorus members and supporting actors with impressive backgrounds in the West End and Broadway. The large-scale ensemble that will portray citizens of Oz, witches, and magical creatures will likely feature talented West End veterans, who will bring their theatrical skills to the screen.
7. Supporting Cast from Musical Theater
There are several other supporting roles in Wicked filled by performers with backgrounds in musical theater. For example, actors like Keala Settle, known for her breakout role in The Greatest Showman and on Broadway in Les Misérables, may appear in the film in one of the smaller yet significant roles, further strengthening the theatrical roots of the movie. There may also be appearances from performers who have appeared in other West End musicals, such as Hamilton, Mamma Mia!, and Cats, lending the movie a true theatrical flair.
8. Potential Cameos from West End Legends
It’s not uncommon for large-scale musical film adaptations to feature cameos from renowned musical theater performers. The Wicked movie may have some surprise guest appearances from actors who have either originated key roles in the West End or who are known for their work in major musical theater productions.
Given the fact that Wicked has been one of the most successful musicals in both Broadway and West End history, there’s a possibility that many of the cast and crew of the film will include cameos or tributes to past Wicked stars. There may even be references to key West End performers, possibly in small roles or behind-the-scenes capacities, celebrating the legacy of the musical itself.
9. Musical Numbers: A Chance for West End Talent to Shine
Beyond just acting, the vocal performances will be central to the success of the movie. The West End tradition of musical excellence, combined with the talents of the cast members, will bring a unique energy to the movie’s soundtrack. As we know, the original Broadway cast and subsequent West End performers have made songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” iconic. The chance to see these songs performed by a mix of West End and Broadway talent in a visually stunning film adaptation has already set expectations high. If the film draws on the depth of musical talent within the West End community, it will only elevate the already impressive score by Stephen Schwartz.
Conclusion: A Star-Studded Film with Deep Theatrical Roots
The Wicked movie is a star-studded affair, packed with talent from both Broadway and the West End. Many of the actors involved have performed in top-tier productions, bringing years of experience and a deep understanding of musical theater to their roles. Whether through their vocal performances or their acting, these stars will carry the magic and drama of Wicked to the big screen.
From the powerhouse vocal talents of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande to the West End experience of Jonathan Bailey and Michelle Yeoh’s unique style, the Wicked movie promises to be a spectacle. Fans of the stage production will no doubt enjoy spotting their favorite theater stars on the big screen, making the adaptation even more exciting.