Jessica Vosk, known for her portrayal of Elphaba in the Broadway production of “Wicked,” has expressed her admiration for the new generation of talent stepping into iconic roles within the film adaptations of the beloved musical. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Vosk shared her thoughts on Ariana Grande, who takes on the role of Glinda in the upcoming films.
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Reflecting on Grande’s passion for the role, Vosk recounted, “She wanted this so badly, and I remember when she called and told me she booked it. I was beside myself for her.” The two performers have developed a close friendship over the years, particularly during Vosk’s performance celebrations for “Wicked’s” 15th anniversary. During this time, Vosk had the opportunity to visit Grande in London, where she was filming.
Vosk was unequivocal about the quality of the performances in the film adaptations. “Both performances, Cynthia Erivo [as Elphaba] included, are beyond fantastic,” she stated. This sentiment echoes the excitement surrounding the cinematic reimagining of “Wicked,” which has long been anticipated by fans. Grande’s enthusiasm for the project was evident to Vosk, who described her visit as an uplifting experience.
The talented singer and actress, who graced the stage at the Gershwin Theatre in New York City during her own run from 2018 to 2019, recalled her journey from the finance world to Broadway. Vosk initially worked at a boutique investor relations firm, a career choice that did not sit well with her family, who feared she was making a mistake by pursuing her passion for theatre.
“I get a lot of questions about ‘How did you take that leap?'” Vosk remarked in a previous interview. Although she admitted to experiencing fear, especially when faced with significant performances, she encouraged others to heed their dreams over conventional career paths. “I’ve done things for other people and wound up so battered in the end,” she said, emphasising the importance of following one’s heart.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vosk explored alternative career options by enrolling in virtual real estate school, contemplating it as a potential backup plan. However, she maintains that her decision to leave her finance job in pursuit of a creative career was ultimately correct, expressing no regrets about her choice despite the challenges she faced at the beginning.
As discussions around “Wicked” continue to gain traction, Vosk’s insights offer a glimpse into the passion and dedication that drives performers in this challenging industry. She embodies the spirit of encouragement and empowerment, celebrating the hard work that artists invest in their craft.
Vosk’s reflections highlight the emotional journey of transitioning from one career to another, a transition that many aspiring performers grapple with. Her story serves as a reminder that passion should be the guiding force in career decisions, no matter the obstacles that may emerge along the way.
As audiences prepare for the release of “Wicked: For Good,” anticipation is mounting among fans eager to see how these beloved characters will be brought to life on screen. Vosk’s pride in her contemporaries and her advocacy for artistic integrity create a supportive narrative for aspiring performers in the making, reinforcing the message that following one’s true calling is a path worth pursuing.