New footage offering a glimpse into the early stages of rehearsals for the upcoming Wicked film has surfaced, providing fans with an intimate look at Ariana Grande’s preparation for her role as Glinda. The clips, circulating on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, showcase Grande working through “Popular,” the iconic duet from the musical, with co-star Cynthia Erivo.
The footage, described as “unseen” and “raw,” depicts Grande in casual rehearsal attire, her hair pulled back, navigating a workshop-like space filled with props and crew. This contrasts sharply with the polished image fans are accustomed to seeing from the pop star, offering a rare peek behind the curtain of a major film production. The Instagram posts, dating back to , and , highlight the initial stages of learning choreography and timing for the complex musical number.
The release of this rehearsal footage arrives as anticipation builds for Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz, scheduled for release in two parts. The first part is slated for , with the second following in . Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film adaptation has been a long-awaited project, and the studio has been strategically releasing snippets of information to maintain audience engagement.
The significance of “Popular” within the Wicked narrative cannot be overstated. The song serves as a pivotal moment in the story, solidifying the complex dynamic between Glinda and Elphaba (played by Erivo). It’s a showcase for both characters’ vocal abilities and a turning point in their relationship, setting the stage for the conflicts and revelations that follow. Seeing Grande and Erivo work through the song in its early stages offers a fascinating insight into how they are approaching these iconic roles.
This isn’t the first behind-the-scenes glimpse offered to the public. A recent television special, “Wicked: One Wonderful Night,” aired earlier this year, but reportedly contained only a fraction of the rehearsal material captured. According to reports, the special included multiple takes of “Defying Gravity,” but much more footage remains unseen. The current release of rehearsal clips suggests a deliberate strategy to continue feeding the public’s appetite for content leading up to the film’s premiere.
The choice to release footage of “Popular” specifically is likely intentional. It’s arguably the most recognizable song from Wicked, instantly evoking the show’s themes of popularity, acceptance, and the complexities of female friendship. By focusing on this particular number, the filmmakers are tapping into the existing cultural resonance of the musical and reminding audiences of the core elements that made it a global phenomenon.
Grande’s casting as Glinda generated considerable buzz, given her own established pop star status and vocal prowess. The role demands both comedic timing and powerful vocals, and the rehearsal footage suggests she is embracing the challenge. Erivo, a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actress and singer, brings a different energy to the role of Elphaba, promising a compelling contrast to Grande’s portrayal of Glinda.
The release of this footage also comes at a time when the entertainment industry is increasingly focused on behind-the-scenes content. Fans are eager to connect with their favorite performers on a more personal level, and studios are responding by offering glimpses into the creative process. This trend is particularly pronounced in the realm of musical adaptations, where the vocal and choreographic demands are often significant.
While the footage is unpolished and clearly in the early stages of development, it offers a valuable insight into the dedication and hard work that goes into bringing a large-scale musical adaptation to the big screen. It’s a reminder that even the most glamorous productions begin with countless hours of rehearsal, experimentation, and collaboration. The continued release of such material will undoubtedly keep fans engaged and excited as the release date approaches.
The Wicked film adaptation is a major undertaking for Universal Pictures, and the studio is clearly investing heavily in marketing and publicity. The strategic release of rehearsal footage, coupled with the upcoming premiere dates, suggests a confident and well-planned campaign designed to capitalize on the enduring popularity of the source material. The film is expected to be a major box office draw, and the studio is hoping to replicate the success of other recent musical adaptations.
