Ariana Grande performs at Walt Disney World. Her next stop may be Broadway in the cast of Wicked. (Photo: Bang ShowBiz)
Ariana Grande, who began her career in 2008 in Broadway musical 13, could be making a return to the Great White Way as witch Elphaba in the long-running Disney hit Wicked. Jackie Burns is currently reprising the role.
The 24-year-old pop star is reportedly in discussions to take on the role and seems an odds on favorite to take it. She has made no secret that she is a huge fan of the production.
“This is a huge feat for Ariana. The role of Elphaba is one of the most coveted parts to play on Broadway,” a source told London’s Sun newspaper.
“Only a very select group of actresses have been chosen over its 13-year run. Bosses believe she’s got the acting talent to take it on and think it’s a bonus that her pop star appeal can pull in fresh Âaudiences.”
Broadway has struggled for years to attract a younger audience.
The Grammy-winning musical is inspired by “The Wizard of Oz.” It tells the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Last year, Grande expressed her interest in the role during an interview on Apple Music’s “Carpool Karaoke: The Series.”
“I was a huge theater nerd my whole life, still am. It’s what I put on when I need to restore my soul and heal myself. It brings you back to home … One of my dream roles is to play Elphaba. I would do it tomorrow!” she told host Seth MacFarlane.
The potential Broadway role is the latest project Ariana is taking on as she tries to move on from the Manchester Arena bombing which left 22 people dead after her concert in the UK city last May.
The “One Last Time” singer then staged the One Love Manchester benefit concert to raise money for the victims of the terrorist atrocity.
Ariana was due to perform a tribute at the recent BRIT Awards but had to pull out due to illness.
The show is currently appearing at the George Gershwin Theater.
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