Get ready to be thrillified! NBC is bringing the magic of Oz to your living room with a live musical special starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. This fall, brace yourselves for an enchanting evening featuring songs from the beloved Broadway hit ‘Wicked,’ perfectly timed ahead of the ‘Wicked: For Good’ movie release. The special is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating the timeless music with a fresh, live performance.
This event marks a significant moment in the 22-year history of ‘Wicked,’ showcasing its songs on broadcast television for the very first time. The special will originate from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, promising a night of unforgettable entertainment. With the star power of Grande and Erivo, along with surprise guests, viewers can expect a spectacular show that bridges the gap between stage and screen.
Here’s what we know so far about this exciting musical event, including the stars involved, the songs you can expect to hear, and how to tune in. Prepare to be swept away by the wonder and excitement as ‘Wicked’ comes alive in a whole new way!
NBC Announces ‘Wicked’ Live Musical Special
During NBCUniversal’s upfront presentation at Radio City Music Hall, Jon M. Chu, the director of ‘Wicked,’ revealed the plans for a live musical TV special. He emphasized that this is an unprecedented event, bringing the songs of ‘Wicked’ to television in a format never before seen. This announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans, eager to see their favorite songs performed live by top talent.
Chu highlighted the significance of this special as a centerpiece of the campaign for the second film, ‘Wicked: For Good.’ This strategic move aims to amplify the anticipation for the movie, creating a cohesive and immersive ‘Wicked’ experience for audiences. The live special is designed to complement the film, offering a unique and captivating prelude to the cinematic release.
The special will be broadcast live on NBC and will be available for streaming the next day on Peacock. This ensures that fans have multiple avenues to enjoy the show, whether they prefer the thrill of live viewing or the convenience of on-demand streaming. The accessibility of the special on Peacock also caters to the modern viewer, aligning with current media consumption habits.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo to Star
The ‘Wicked’ live musical special will feature Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the stars of the upcoming ‘Wicked’ movie. Grande and Erivo bring exceptional talent and charisma to their roles, promising memorable performances. Their involvement ensures a high level of artistry and a deep connection to the source material.
Cynthia Erivo, known for her powerful vocals and acting prowess, will undoubtedly deliver a stunning portrayal of her character. Ariana Grande, with her incredible range and stage presence, is set to enchant audiences with her interpretation of her role. Together, they form a dynamic duo that is sure to captivate viewers.
Chu hinted at the possibility of additional castmates and surprise guests joining Grande and Erivo, adding an element of anticipation and excitement to the special. These surprise appearances could include Broadway veterans, rising stars, or even cameos from other celebrities, making the event even more spectacular.
Performing Songs from the First ‘Wicked’ Movie
The live special will primarily feature songs from the first ‘Wicked’ movie, offering fans a chance to relive their favorite musical moments. Classic tunes like ‘Defying Gravity,’ ‘Popular,’ and ‘The Wizard and I’ are expected to be part of the setlist, creating a nostalgic and thrilling experience for viewers.
In addition to the beloved classics, there may also be a sneak peek at songs from the second movie, ‘Wicked: For Good.’ This would provide fans with an exclusive preview of the new music, building even more excitement for the film’s release. The inclusion of new material would bridge the gap between the special and the movie, creating a seamless promotional experience.
The performances will be staged at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and intimate setting. This venue will provide the perfect backdrop for the live musical event, enhancing the overall viewing experience for both the in-person audience and those watching from home.
A ‘Thrillifying’ Night of Entertainment
Jon M. Chu has promised a ‘thrillifying’ night of entertainment, drawing directly from the lexicon of Oz to describe the experience awaiting viewers. This carefully chosen word encapsulates the magic, excitement, and wonder that ‘Wicked’ embodies, setting high expectations for the live special.
The live format of the special adds an element of unpredictability and excitement, differentiating it from pre-recorded performances. The spontaneity of live television ensures that each moment is unique, creating a sense of immediacy and connection with the audience. This live energy is expected to elevate the viewing experience, making it truly memorable.
Chu’s vision for the special is to create an immersive experience that captures the essence of ‘Wicked’ while offering something new and innovative. By combining the star power of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo with surprise guests and a selection of iconic songs, the special is poised to be a landmark event in the history of musical television.
Exclusive Sneak Peek at ‘Wicked: For Good’
Attendees at NBCUniversal’s upfront presentation were treated to an exclusive sneak peek at the trailer for ‘Wicked: For Good.’ This trailer has not yet been released to the public, making the preview a highly coveted experience. The glimpse into the second movie served to intensify anticipation and generate buzz among industry insiders.
Chu playfully warned the audience against recording the trailer, emphasizing the seriousness with which the studio is protecting its unreleased content. This added to the sense of exclusivity, making those in attendance feel like privileged insiders. The playful threat of ‘fly monkeys’ added a touch of ‘Wicked’ magic to the event.
While the public eagerly awaits the release of the trailer, the sneak peek at the upfront presentation served its purpose in building excitement and anticipation. The strategic reveal of exclusive content is a powerful marketing tool, driving interest and engagement in the upcoming film.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect from the ‘Wicked’ Live Special
The ‘Wicked’ live musical special on NBC promises to be an unforgettable night of entertainment. With Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo leading the cast, viewers can expect stellar performances of their favorite ‘Wicked’ songs. The special marks a significant moment in the musical’s history, bringing its magic to a broad television audience.
As the release of ‘Wicked: For Good’ approaches, this live special serves as the perfect prelude, building excitement and anticipation for the film. The combination of live performances, surprise guests, and exclusive content makes this event a must-watch for fans of ‘Wicked’ and musical theater alike.
Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting world of Oz as NBC presents a ‘thrillifying’ experience that celebrates the timeless appeal of ‘Wicked.’ Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the story, this live musical special is sure to captivate and delight, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the ‘Wicked’ saga.
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