Cynthia Erivo Shares Her Experience with 'Wicked', Embracing a New Elphaba and Her Terrifying Encounter with 'Dracula' Production

At the newly renovated Town Hall near Kings Cross, Cynthia Erivo captivated the audience while discussing her memoir Simply More alongside actor Ncuti Gatwa. The energy in the room was palpable, with some attendees leaning forward in anticipation and others leaping from their seats, concerned for the stars safety. But the excitement came from a young fan trying to grab Erivos attention. She recalls, She just shot up, waving her hands It didnt feel like she was moving on her own. After a brief moment, Erivo reassured the girl, who gifted her a small, personalized doll, a touching gesture that left a lasting impression.

Erivo reflects on these human connections: People now feel comfortable sharing their feelings, experiences, and what work means to them. After the event, hundreds of fans eagerly collected pre-ordered copies of Simply More and flocked to the stage door to greet her, creating a joyful chaos.

On the creative side, Wicked: For Good director Jon M. Chu aimed to portray Elphaba as all-powerful. Erivo explains how they defined the characters abilities: Her power is dominion over gravity. She can take it away or give it, making things land or fly. Beyond that, she has visions we explore in the second film. The broom, Erivo notes, is simply a tool for speed, akin to a motorbike for someone who can already fly.

Erivo describes Elphaba as a badass and a superhero: Shes fierce, in her own power, and has a particular strength. She also shares insights into the characters physicality: her wild hair and expressive hands became essential parts of Elphabas identity, used to cast spells and communicate personality.

The story resonates with contemporary themes, according to Erivo: The underpinning story is a woman against Fascism. She reflects on scenes depicting oppression and compares them to real-world events, emphasizing the relevance and depth of the narrative. Erivo wanted Elphaba to be multidimensional, a character whose decisions matter and who leaves an impact.

Beyond Wicked, Erivo is expanding her range. She discusses her upcoming projects, including playing a Samurai-CEO hybrid in a new film and starring in the screen adaptation of Prima Facie, where she portrays a determined attorney confronting a traumatic case. She emphasizes the importance of exploring diverse roles and not repeating herself: Once this story has been told there are other women to meet, other characters to meet, other stories to tell.

Recently, Erivo returned to the London stage for the first time in over a decade to star in Bram Stokers Dracula, directed by Kip Williams. She will perform all 23 roles in the production, with rehearsals beginning in Los Angeles before moving to London for the premiere at the Noel Coward Theatre on February 4. She admits, It scared the sh*t out of me I was terrified. The challenge of taking on multiple roles and pushing her limits drew her to the project.

Looking back, Erivo recalls the hurdles of her early career: even after her Broadway success in The Color Purple, opportunities in London were limited. Now, seeing her name in bold letters above a West End stage, she describes the moment as crazy, really wonderful and a full-circle experience. She also notes that the Royal National Theatre has approached her for future projects, keeping her options open for more stage work in the U.K.

Author's Commentary: A Glimpse into Cynthia Erivo's Journey

The recent event at the newly renovated Town Hall near Kings Cross, where Cynthia Erivo discussed her memoir, Simply More, alongside Ncuti Gatwa, offered an insightful view into the depth of her personal and professional life. The interaction with her fans underscored how Erivo has successfully bridged the gap between celebrity and human connection, as demonstrated by the young fan's heartfelt gesture. It’s clear that for Erivo, it’s not just about the work she does but about the relationships she cultivates along the way.

Erivo's reflections on the role of Elphaba in Wicked provide valuable insight into her approach to character building. By portraying Elphaba as a powerful, multidimensional character, she embraces the challenge of delivering a role that’s both timely and timeless, resonating with themes of resistance and empowerment. Her decision to focus on her character’s power beyond the broomstick, emphasizing dominion over gravity, reveals a deep understanding of how to elevate a story beyond the script.

As Erivo continues to expand her range, from portraying a samurai-CEO hybrid to tackling the role of an attorney in Prima Facie, it’s evident that she is committed to pushing boundaries and refusing to be typecast. Her refusal to repeat herself in roles shows her dedication to growth and exploration, reinforcing the importance of evolving in one's craft.

Returning to the stage in London after a decade-long absence to star in Dracula is a testament to her versatility and willingness to take on new challenges. The decision to perform all 23 roles in the production is ambitious and marks a significant milestone in her career. Erivo’s journey, from Broadway success to returning to the West End, encapsulates her resilience and ongoing ascent in the entertainment industry.

As she continues to explore various genres and characters, Erivo’s future remains open to new possibilities. With the Royal National Theatre eyeing her for future projects, it’s clear that her talent is in high demand, and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance will keep audiences captivated for years to come.

Sources:

• Inside Cynthia Erivo’s ‘Wicked’ Experience, Letting Go Of “Fierce” Elphaba And The New ‘Dracula’ Production That “Terrified” Her