Wicked: Tiny Desk Concert

Summary

In this heartfelt and insightful performance, Stephen Schwartz, the composer of *Wicked*, reflects on the creative process behind some of the musical’s iconic songs, including 'Defying Gravity,' 'Popular,' and 'For Good.' He shares the evolution of these tracks, their inspiration, and the emotional core of the show. The performance features Alyssa Fox and McKenzie Curts, the current stars of *Wicked*, showcasing their incredible talent while Schwartz delves into the themes of friendship, self-discovery, and love in the musical. Through personal anecdotes, the production explores the profound connection between the characters of Elphaba and Glinda.

Takeaways

• 😀 The performance features the song 'Defying Gravity' from the musical *Wicked*, symbolizing a moment of empowerment for the character Elphaba.
• 😀 Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of *Wicked*, explains how 'Defying Gravity' was conceived and evolved during the writing process.
• 😀 Schwartz shares that *Wicked* was inspired by the novel *Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West*, with key thematic moments, including Elphaba's flight.
• 😀 The transformation of Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship is central to *Wicked*, and the song 'Popular' explores their evolving friendship.
• 😀 The character of Glinda is depicted as a well-meaning but somewhat shallow figure who attempts to give Elphaba a makeover, reflecting the theme of self-acceptance in the show.
• 😀 The song 'Popular' is written in a bubblegum pop style, showing Glinda's humorous attempt at transforming Elphaba into someone socially accepted.
• 😀 The character conflict and chemistry between Elphaba and the love interest, Fiyero, is explored through the song 'I'm Not That Girl,' where Elphaba confronts her feelings.
• 😀 The song 'I'm Not That Girl' is a restrained ballad, influenced by the structure of a Scottish folk song, with Schwartz drawing inspiration from personal music tastes.
• 😀 The final song, 'For Good,' is a farewell between Elphaba and Glinda, capturing their deep emotional bond and the impact they've had on each other's lives.
• 😀 Schwartz shares that the song 'For Good' was inspired by a conversation with his daughter, highlighting themes of change, personal growth, and the significance of friendships.

Q & A

What is the significance of the song 'Defying Gravity' in the musical 'Wicked'?

'Defying Gravity' represents a pivotal moment in the musical where Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, embraces her true self and decides to break free from the constraints imposed on her. It marks her transformation into a powerful and independent character, symbolizing the moment she rejects societal norms and chooses to follow her own path.

How did Stephen Schwartz come up with the music for 'Defying Gravity'?

Stephen Schwartz explained that he composed the music for 'Defying Gravity' during the early stages of writing for the musical 'Wicked'. He was inspired by a riff that came to him and developed it over time. The song evolved from an initial musical idea into a significant piece that conveyed Elphaba's personal empowerment.

What role does Glinda play in Elphaba's character development in 'Wicked'?

Glinda starts as Elphaba's reluctant roommate at university, initially disliking her. However, as the story progresses, Glinda and Elphaba develop a deep friendship. Glinda's efforts to 'give Elphaba a makeover' highlight her attempt to mold Elphaba into something more socially acceptable, which contrasts with Elphaba's eventual journey of self-acceptance and defiance.

Why is the song 'Popular' significant in the context of the musical?

'Popular' is a fun and upbeat song that showcases Glinda's attempt to make Elphaba conform to societal standards of beauty and popularity. The song contrasts Glinda’s superficial worldview with Elphaba's more earnest personality, highlighting the differences between the two characters and setting the stage for their evolving relationship.

What is the inspiration behind the song 'I'm Not That Girl'?

The song 'I'm Not That Girl' is inspired by a folk song Stephen Schwartz loved as a child, called 'I Know Where I'm Going.' The song's structure and feeling, particularly the use of the dominant chord to create a sense of suspension, influenced the emotional tone of 'I'm Not That Girl,' which explores Elphaba's quiet heartbreak over her unrequited love for Fiyero.

What is the theme of the song 'For Good' in the musical?

'For Good' is a heartfelt song about the profound impact Elphaba and Glinda have had on each other's lives. It symbolizes the end of their friendship and their parting ways, acknowledging that they have changed each other for the better, despite their differences and struggles.

How does 'Wicked' reimagine the story of 'The Wizard of Oz'?

'Wicked' presents an alternate perspective on the characters and events from 'The Wizard of Oz.' It focuses on the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and explores the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda, showing how they went from being enemies to friends. The musical questions the nature of good and evil, highlighting how these concepts are often subjective.

What role does the Wizard play in the musical, according to Stephen Schwartz?

Stephen Schwartz mentions that the Wizard’s music in 'Wicked' is intentionally different from the rest of the show to emphasize his role as a manipulative figure. The Wizard is depicted as a character who maintains power through deception, contrasting with the more genuine characters like Elphaba and Glinda.

How did the collaboration between Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman shape 'Wicked'?

Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman worked closely together to adapt Gregory Maguire's novel into a musical. They made crucial decisions about the structure and the tone of the show early on, such as the choice of how the musical would end and the pivotal moment of Elphaba flying. Their collaboration also involved brainstorming to develop key songs, including 'For Good' and 'Defying Gravity.'

What message does 'Wicked' convey about friendship and self-empowerment?

'Wicked' conveys a message about the complexities of friendship and self-empowerment. Through Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship, the musical explores themes of loyalty, change, and personal growth. It also emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s true identity and the strength found in overcoming societal expectations and personal struggles.