When we heard Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were going to be performing a medley of musical theatre songs to open the Oscars, we knew the singers would deliver a brilliant performance. What we didn’t realize was that their performance would be absolutely spellbinding, leaving millions of viewers around the world with their jaws on the floor after hearing these ladies’ angelic voices.
Looking absolutely stunning in a floor-length red gown, Ariana kicked off proceedings, giving a positively heart-stopping performance of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ from The Wizard of Oz. Then Cynthia appeared in her elegant white gown to sing a gorgeous version of ‘Home’, originally from ‘The Wiz’ (a retelling of The Wizard of Oz).
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for, when the singers came together to sing a duet of ‘Defying Gravity’, a song from the musical ‘Wicked’. With both singers having recently starred in a much-acclaimed film version of the musical, their performance went down an absolute treat, blending pitch-perfect harmonies with rich and powerful emotion.
If you have yet to see the film ‘Wicked’ for yourself, Music Man readers, I highly recommend you check it out. But until then, here’s a little taster from the film itself – the ending scene, no less, in which Cynthia and Ariana give a goosebump-inducing performance of ‘Defying Gravity’ at the climax of the film.
As magical as the film version of ‘Defying Gravity’ is, however, nothing can match the electrifying energy that Cynthia and Ariana brought to the live version that they performed at the opening of the Oscars, as well as their solo performances of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and ‘Home’. Showcasing their incredible onstage chemistry and blinding musical talent, it’s bound to be a performance that will be remembered for many years to come.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have truly set a new standard for live performances with their enchanting Oscars medley. Their ability to captivate and move an audience is unmatched, and this performance is one for the ages. To explore more of their remarkable talent and to relive this unforgettable night, check out the useful links provided below.