The Wicked: Singing Live featurette brings audiences into the power of the recording

As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in virtual worlds and musical performances alike, I must say that Jon M. Chu’s decision to use live singing in the upcoming “Wicked” film has piqued my interest like never before.

There is something truly transformative about the experience of live music. I have been to many performances of the same music because no matter what it says on the sheet music, no two artists have the same take on a piece of music, and it’s always worth hearing something familiar in a new way. In films, the finished product is the result of multiple takes and clever editing to make sure the best version of a scene makes it to the theatrical release. This is why Jon M. Chu’s decision to use live singing in the upcoming Wicked film is such an interesting choice. In “Wicked: Singing Live,” we get to see some of the realities that come with that approach to the famous musical.

“Further connected to the words”

The video commences with it appearing to be a rehearsal rather than a performance. At the start, Cynthia Erivo approaches the stage as she sings a five-note vocal exercise that alternates between vowels. Thirteen seconds into the clip, Ariana Grande works on a part of a song reminiscent of “Dear Old Shiz.” Meanwhile, someone tinkers with a costume prop in the backdrop. The most enchanting segment of music is heard at the one-minute mark when Cynthia reaches the iconic line, “so if you care to find me, look to the western skies” from “Defying Gravity.

As a devoted fan, I’m excited to share that this upcoming video serves as a tantalizing sneak peek into what we can expect in a few weeks, something truly extraordinary. The live music in it is electrifying and heartfelt when executed perfectly, yet it’s also unapronable due to its inherent unpredictability. Cynthia Erivo sheds light on the fact that she and her co-star Ariana Grande actively worked together to shape the musical direction of this project.

We chose to sing live because it meant that we would be further connected to the words we were saying and to each other…There’s something special that happens when music is live in a room.
Cynthia Erivo

Ariana indicates that it was an obvious decision for both Cynthia and herself. The director explains they’ve created an engaging experience by noting that, in essence, their film set functions as a recording studio as well. This idea is emphasized as we catch a glimpse of the conductor diligently working in the foreground during one scene.

“Husks.”

Chu points out that the raw, genuine feelings being captured on set are what you’ll feel and perceive when watching in the theater. To address any concerns about this impacting the music quality, we include an unaccompanied duet at the heart of “Defying Gravity,” which is later followed by equally intense vocals accompanied by an orchestra.

Grandé describes that after particularly intense emotional days, Cynthia and she would refer to themselves as “emptied-out shells,” having poured out all their energy. The dedication to the music for this project undoubtedly promises an exciting experience, and we can hardly wait to see what it will be like at the end of the first movie in the Wicked duology.

On November 22, Wicked premieres, yet before that, you can delve into a wealth of behind-the-scenes footage and enlightening interviews. Rest assured, we’ll be here, ready to experience it all with you!

2024-10-30 17:32

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