Wicked 2: The Musical Sequel Set to Introduce New Songs and a Fresh Perspective
As the release of Wicked: For Good draws near, excitement is building for the highly anticipated sequel to the 2024 hit movie. The upcoming film will adapt the second act of the original Broadway production, detailing the journeys of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) as they drift apart and encounter new challenges. The movie will feature new solo numbers for both characters, providing a deeper insight into their minds during pivotal moments.
Composers Stephen Schwartz has revealed that the new songs will be sung by both Elphaba and Glinda, with the goal of making their characters more relatable. This decision could have significant implications for the story, potentially elevating Glinda’s role in the narrative and providing a fresh perspective on her character.
Glinda’s new song is expected to be a pivotal moment in her journey, taking place offstage in the original production. Ariana Grande has teased that the song will occur during a moment that sets her character on a path of self-discovery, potentially leading her to stand against the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and help Elphaba escape.
The decision to give Glinda more screen time and a new song could signal a shift in her character’s development, potentially making her the main character of the sequel. This would be a significant departure from the original story, which framed Elphaba as the main character. With Elphaba absent from Shiz University and the Emerald City, there is ample opportunity for Glinda to take center stage and adopt the lead role.
However, this change would also require the writers to revisit Glinda’s character arc, potentially making her more redeemable and likable. This would be a departure from the original musical, in which Glinda is complicit in the Wizard’s oppressive regime and perpetuates the idea that Elphaba is “wicked” in order to maintain her status and popularity.
Regardless of the outcome, the new songs and characters’ arcs will undoubtedly add depth and complexity to the story. With the potential for a Cythnia Erivo and Ariana Grande competition in the upcoming awards season, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Wicked: For Good.