Stephen Schwartz Reflects on Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo’s ‘For Good’ with Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth
Renowned composer Stephen Schwartz recently shared exclusive insights with PEOPLE regarding the remarkable performance of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo alongside Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth for a rendition of “For Good.” The quartet delivered a reworked version of the beloved song during NBC’s ‘Wicked’ special ‘One Wonderful Night’ earlier this month.
In an exclusive interview, Schwartz, the 77-year-old mastermind behind the new Wicked films and the original Broadway musical, opened up about the collaboration. The performance featured Grande, Erivo, Menzel, and Chenoweth, who have all been profoundly impacted by Schwartz’s work.
Schwartz described the experience as surreal and shared that he wrote new lyrics specifically for Menzel and Chenoweth as they passed the torch during the performance. Menzel and Chenoweth famously originated the roles of Elphaba and Glinda in the Broadway musical, while Erivo and Grande portray the characters in the cinematic adaptation.
During the updated performance of “For Good,” Schwartz incorporated a new bridge that included poignant lyrics sung by Menzel and Chenoweth as they symbolically handed over the torch. The emotional resonance of the moment was heightened as Erivo and Grande joined forces with the original stage actors.
Reflecting on the filming process, Schwartz mentioned how the quartet dressed up early in the morning for the special performance, describing it as a great experience. He also highlighted his continued collaboration with Chenoweth in ‘The Queen of Versailles,’ which premiered on Broadway recently, marking their reunion more than two decades after Wicked.
Furthermore, Erivo and Grande’s rendition of “For Good” is part of the theatrical release of Wicked: For Good, currently captivating audiences in cinemas. The fusion of talent and emotion in this performance underscores the enduring impact of Schwartz’s musical legacy and the universal themes explored in Wicked.
The seamless blend of voices and heartfelt performances captured in the reworked version of “For Good” serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of Schwartz’s compositions and the ability of music to forge connections across generations. This collaboration not only pays homage to the original production but also breathes new life into a classic song, resonating with fans old and new.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, collaborations like these remind us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and create lasting memories. The performance not only celebrates the creative genius of Schwartz but also highlights the talents of the artists involved, showcasing their ability to interpret and imbue a cherished song with their unique artistry.
In a world filled with constant change, moments like these serve as a reminder of the enduring magic of music and the profound impact it can have on audiences worldwide. As fans eagerly await more collaborations and creative projects in the future, the performance of “For Good” stands as a shining example of the transformative power of music in uniting hearts and souls.
Overall, Stephen Schwartz’s reflections on the unforgettable performance of “For Good” underscore the timeless appeal and universal message of his work, inspiring audiences to embrace the beauty of music and its ability to weave together diverse voices in harmony.