Behind the Scenes with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo at Wicked: One Wonderful Night
#ariana_grande #cynthia_erivo #wicked #broadway #behind_the_scenes
Behind the Scenes with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo
While “Wicked: One Wonderful Night” dazzled viewers with its on-screen magic, the real enchantment happened off-camera. Fans who tuned in missed the lively energy of the set, where Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo shared laughs and traded vocal runs between takes. The camaraderie between the cast, including impromptu dance breaks and heartfelt pep talks, created an atmosphere as electric as the performances themselves. Multiple takes of “Defying Gravity” weren’t just about perfection—they showcased the dedication and artistry behind the show-stopping number, with each run-through revealing new layers of emotion and technical brilliance.
Moments You Didn’t See on TV
Beyond the iconic song, the cameras captured candid moments: costume adjustments, last-minute script tweaks, and playful banter that never made the final cut. The production team worked tirelessly, ensuring every detail—from lighting to sound—was flawless. Viewers also missed the cast’s surprise tributes to the original Broadway production, adding depth to the night’s celebration. These unseen glimpses highlight the passion and teamwork that make “Wicked” a timeless phenomenon, proving that sometimes, the best moments happen when the cameras aren’t rolling.
About the People Mentioned
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur born on June 26, 1993, in Boca Raton, Florida. She first gained public attention as an actress playing Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon TV series *Victorious* (2010–13) and its spin-off *Sam & Cat* (2013–14). Her early career also included Broadway, notably starring in the musical *13* in 2008[3][4]. Transitioning from acting to music, Grande released her debut album *Yours Truly* in 2013, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and established her as a prominent pop and R&B artist. She followed this with a series of successful albums, including *My Everything* (2014), *Dangerous Woman* (2016), *Sweetener* (2018), *Thank U, Next* (2019), *Positions* (2020), and *Eternal Sunshine* (2024). Her music is noted for her impressive vocal range and blending of pop, R&B, and trap influences. Grande has earned multiple Grammy Awards, with *Sweetener* winning her first Grammy and *Thank U, Next* producing Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles like "Thank U, Next" and "7 Rings"[1][2]. In addition to music, Grande has acted in films such as the political satire *Don't Look Up* (2021) and starred as Glinda in the 2024 film adaptation of the musical *Wicked*, earning her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for her performance[1][2]. She is one of the best-selling music artists globally, with over 90 million records sold, and has received numerous accolades including multiple American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Guinness World Records[2]. Beyond entertainment, Grande is known for her advocacy on mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and social equality. She launched a successful cosmetics brand, R.E.M. Beauty, in 2021 and has a significant presence on social media, ranking among the most-followed individuals on Instagram[2]. Her personal life has included her marriage to Dalton Gomez from 2021 until their divorce in 2024[3][5].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Broadway
The term "Broadway" can refer to different entities, but it primarily denotes two distinct organizations: the Broadway theater industry and Broadway Technology. ## Broadway Theater Industry The Broadway theater industry is a vibrant sector centered in New York City, known for its iconic theatrical productions. It has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, with roots in vaudeville and live performances. The industry's business model revolves around producing, promoting, and performing theatrical shows, generating revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, licensing, and sponsorships[1][7]. Key partners include playwrights, producers, actors, and theater owners[1]. Despite its popularity, about 80% of producers struggle to recoup their investments[7]. The Broadway League, a national trade association, plays a crucial role by promoting the industry, organizing events like The Jimmy Awards, and supporting community engagement initiatives[6]. The industry is also embracing technology to modernize its operations and marketing strategies[5]. ## Broadway Technology Broadway Technology is a financial technology company based in New York, specializing in fixed income and foreign exchange trading solutions for global banks[2][4]. Founded nearly two decades ago, it has built a reputation for delivering market-leading trading platforms and solutions. The company powers over $100 trillion in annual trading volume and has expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of financial markets[2][4]. Broadway Technology's mission is to enhance efficiency in trading workflows through innovative software and expert support[4]. In summary, while the Broadway theater industry is a cultural icon focused on live performances, Broadway Technology is a leading player in financial technology, providing critical trading solutions to global financial institutions. Both entities contribute significantly to their respective fields, with the theater industry enriching cultural landscapes and Broadway Technology advancing financial markets.