As the eagerly awaited release of "Wicked: Part One" approaches, fans are treated to a reunion of sorts with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande stepping into the iconic characters of Elphaba and Glinda. This marks a significant moment in the history of musical theater, as these roles are widely regarded as some of the most complex and demanding in the Broadway canon.

Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, which offers a unique perspective on L. Frank Baum's "The Wizard of Oz," "Wicked" tells the captivating story of Elphaba, the misunderstood green witch, and her bubbly counterpart, Glinda. Their journey starts with rivalry and animosity but evolves into a deep and transformative friendship, highlighting the power of understanding and acceptance amidst societal pressure.

Over two decades, many talented actresses have donned the green makeup and flowing gowns, from Broadway to global stages. As the curtain rises on the film adaptation—21 years after the musical's Broadway debut—former stars of the show open up about their experiences, the significance of their roles, and the profound impact "Wicked" has had on their lives.

Meet the Witches Who Have Played Elphaba and Glinda

Among the actresses sharing their stories are Jessica Vosk, known for her powerful Elphaba portrayal from 2018 to 2019; Eden Espinosa, who spent over seven years in the role; and Louise Dearman, the only actress to have played both Elphaba and Glinda. Saycon Sengbloh made history as the first Black actress to portray Elphaba on Broadway, while Willemijn Verkaik introduced the character to European audiences.

The Journey to Becoming Elphaba and Glinda

Interestingly, the legacy of Elphaba can trace its roots back to Stephanie J. Block, who helped shape the role in the early workshops. Her insights into the character have left an indelible mark on Elphaba’s portrayal throughout the years. Block fondly recalls how her early slips during rehearsals became woven into the fabric of the show's narrative.

Actresses like McKenzie Kurtz, who played Glinda in 2023, eagerly embraced the responsibility of honoring the portrayals that inspired them while injecting their personal flair into their characters. The emotional connections these actresses cultivated with the roles mirror their own journeys of self-discovery and resilience, with many relating personally to Elphaba's feelings of isolation due to differences.

A Unique Sisterhood in Musical Theatre

What sets the actresses of "Wicked" apart is their tight-knit bond, a special sisterhood born from shared challenges. The emotional and vocal demands of the roles foster an understanding that only those who have taken on these characters can truly grasp. These women often support one another through the rigorous demands of the eight-show weeks, revealing a powerful camaraderie equivalent to a “green girl sisterhood.”

Their experiences extend beyond camaraderie, forging personal connections, with Block even marrying her Fiyero, played by Sebastian Arcelus. Experiences of mutual support and shared trials helped these actresses navigate the complexities of their roles, especially in the face of social media pressures.

Insights Gained from Portraying the Witches

For many, a tenure as Elphaba or Glinda spans about a year, serving as a transformative period in their lives. Actresses like Espinosa have noted how the character embodies personal growth during pivotal ages, making every return to the role a fresh journey. Elphaba's powerful narrative reflects themes of authenticity and resilience, resonating deeply with these actresses and empowering them long after stepping off the stage.

Anticipation for ‘Wicked: Part One’

As the film adaptation gears up for its debut, former Elphabas and Glindas have already previewed it, sharing tears of joy at the emotional depth and stunning visual spectacle. Many praised the expansion of the story within the cinematic format, appreciating the thoroughness with which the creative team approached the adaptation. Sengbloh noted the wonderful representation in Elphaba's appearance, with culturally significant details like braided hair.

The actresses involved look forward to how the film will connect with a new generation, sharing the timeless messages of friendship, identity, and resilience inherent in "Wicked." As anticipated as ever, the witches continue to captivate hearts, reaffirming that the magic of Oz is alive and well in both stage and film.