Elphaba's experience of being an outsider and feeling different resonates deeply with Erivo, who has often felt like an outsider herself.
Erivo describes it as overwhelming but wonderful, appreciating the practicality of the set design that allowed her to fully immerse herself in the world of Oz.
Erivo knew the music of 'Wicked' well from her drama school days but had never seen the show until she was 25, when she took herself to see it on her birthday.
Erivo sees the outsider theme as a constant reminder of societal shunning and lack of inclusion, but also as an opportunity for empathy and growth.
Erivo advises that the very thing making someone feel like an outsider is what makes them special and can lead them to where they need to be, encouraging them to embrace their difference.
The movie version of the Broadway smash Wicked hits screens Friday, just in time for the holidays. Stage and screen star Cynthia Erivo plays the Wicked Witch of the West. She speaks to NPR about the role.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)