The 'Wicked' Movie Staring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande has Inspired a Lot of Questions: Stephen Schwartz Shares the Answers
The film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical Wicked has inspired a lot of questions in the general public, and, luckily, Stephen Schwartz has some of the answers.
There have been two major facts plainly known about the long-anticipated film adaptation of the Tony Award winning musical Wicked. The first is that the two leading roles will be played by the incredible Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. The second is that the movie will be split into two movies, with one slated to come out in 2024 and one set to come out in 2025.
People have mused over why the change was made, where the first movie will end, and whether or not there will be new songs included in the films. Stephen Schwartz has the answers.
The award winning composer of Wicked has confirmed that new songs will be added to the show. This is news that may gives many die-hard fans of the show pause; however, the composer assures everyone that these songs will not be added simply for the sake of filling time.
Instead, Schwartz has set the standard that each of the new songs, "need to add something to the story or the characters. They can't just be changes to do something different."
That is definitely reassuring to hear.
Furthermore, Schwartz went on to explain that a big reason behind the decision to split the two films was due to the show-stopping, unforgettable power of the Act I closing number "Defying Gravity." The artist explained:
"That song is written specifically to bring the curtain down. and whatever scene to follow it without a break just seemed hugely anti-climactic...When it's all done, if it doesn't work that way, we'll have to figure something out."
We will keep you up to date on all things Wicked as they come to light!
