Sentimental Men: Episode 59 - “A Bright-Eyed, Bushy-Tailed, Hydrated Elphaba” (with Kristin Chenoweth)
Host/Authors: Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi
Guest: Kristin Chenoweth
Release Date: July 4, 2024
Duration: Approximately 72 minutes

Introduction

In Episode 59 of "Sentimental Men," hosts Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi welcome Broadway legend Kristin Chenoweth to discuss her illustrious career in musical theatre, with a particular focus on her iconic role as Elphaba in "Wicked." The episode delves into Kristin's journey in Broadway, her experiences portraying complex characters, and her perspectives on representation in theatre.

Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Journey

[19:15]
Kristin opens up about her unexpected path to Broadway, initially aspiring to be a pop star. Her passion for theater gradually took precedence as she immersed herself in roles that showcased her vocal prowess and acting skills.

• Kristin: "I always wanted to be a pop star. Theater just kept happening, and the pop star thing just was not happening."

She recounts her early roles, including touring with "Rent" as Mimi Marquez and her transition to playing Aida in the national tour. These experiences laid the foundation for her versatility on stage.

• Kristin: "I played Mimi on the national tour of Rent... then I booked Aida. I was the Aida standby and then starred as Aida in New York."

Auditioning for “Wicked” and Becoming Elphaba

[24:07]
Kristin shares the pivotal moment when she auditioned for "Wicked." Initially applying as a standby for Elphaba, she decided to focus solely on this role, foregoing other auditions to dedicate herself fully.

• Kristin: "I called my agent and I said, I cannot do these other auditions. I'm either gonna be really good at one of these or, like, mediocre at all of them."

Her commitment paid off when she was cast as the standby for Elphaba, marking a significant milestone as she became the first Black actress to take on the role on Broadway.

• Quincy: "You were the first Black actress to perform Elphaba on Broadway. Did that feel momentous at the time?"
• Kristin: "I was very proud to be the first Black woman to perform the role of Elphaba on Broadway."

Challenges and Triumphs in “Wicked”

[32:16]
Kristin discusses the technical and emotional demands of portraying Elphaba. From managing the intricate makeup process to mastering the powerful vocal performances required for songs like "Defying Gravity" and "No Good Deed."

• Kristin: "If you've had any vocal issues... you gotta be in good voice to have smooth transitions between those portions of the song."
• Quincy: "Wizard and I is awful criminal, that they make the Elphaba start their show with that song."
• Kristin: "I'm a bright-eyed, bushy tailed, hydrated Elphaba. That's how I see it."

She reflects on the physical strain of performing in a heavy, elaborate costume and the importance of maintaining vocal health amidst the rigors of daily performances.

• Kristin: "Running around in that dress. It weighs like 25 pounds. I learned how to... get the hell out of the room and down the thing."

Representation and Casting in Broadway

[50:30]
The conversation shifts to the broader topic of representation in Broadway, particularly in "Wicked." Kristin emphasizes the significance of having diverse actors in iconic roles and how it impacts the perception and inclusivity of theatre.

• Quincy: "Do you think it's easier now to cast a Black leading actress as Elphaba with Cynthia Erivo in the new movie?"
• Kristin: "Once people start thinking of Elphaba as just canonically Black, it makes casting a Black leading actress as Elphaba much easier."

She expresses optimism about the evolving landscape of Broadway, where representation is increasingly becoming a priority, and the positive effects it has on both performers and audiences.

Transitioning Between Stage and Screen

[61:26]
Kristin delves into her experiences transitioning from Broadway to television and film. She discusses the challenges of adapting her acting style to fit the nuances of screen performances versus live theatre.

• Kristin: "Musical theater is more like basketball and TV is like golf. It's trying to get this tiny little hole 50 feet away."

She highlights the differences in energy management, rehearsal processes, and the solitary nature of screen acting compared to the collaborative spirit of theatre.

• Kristin: "There's something about rehearsing with a group of people... it's a human experience of togetherness."

Lessons Learned from “Wicked” and Broadway

[67:01]
Reflecting on her time with "Wicked," Kristin shares invaluable lessons that have shaped her approach to both her personal and professional life. She emphasizes the importance of taking charge of one's destiny and maintaining professionalism as a standby.

• Kristin: "Take life by the throat and get what you want out of life."
• Kristin: "Broadway is a machine. It is a commercial endeavor... You have to be a problem solver in moments like that."

She credits her experiences with fostering resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in sustaining a long-running production.

Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

[62:19]
Kristin expresses her continued passion for Broadway and her openness to returning to the stage when the right opportunity arises. She balances her love for theatrical performances with her burgeoning career in television and film.

• Kristin: "I would definitely do Broadway again. It definitely would need to be the right situation."

She concludes with a heartfelt message about harnessing personal power and using her platform to inspire others, drawing parallels between her character Elphaba and her real-life journey.

• Kristin: "Elphaba is a very passionate character... I take that with me in everything I do."

Conclusion

Episode 59 of "Sentimental Men" offers an intimate look into Kristin Chenoweth's profound impact on Broadway and her thoughtful reflections on the evolving landscape of musical theatre. From breaking barriers as the first Black Elphaba to navigating the transition between stage and screen, Kristin's insights provide valuable inspiration for aspiring actors and theatre enthusiasts alike. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to representation underscore the enduring power of diversity in the arts.

Notable Quotes:

• Kristin Chenoweth [24:07]: "I called my agent and I said, I cannot do these other auditions. I'm either gonna be really good at one of these or, like, mediocre at all of them."
• Kristin Chenoweth [50:30]: "Once people start thinking of Elphaba as just canonically Black, it makes casting a Black leading actress as Elphaba much easier."
• Kristin Chenoweth [61:26]: "There's something about rehearsing with a group of people... it's a human experience of togetherness."
• Kristin Chenoweth [67:01]: "Take life by the throat and get what you want out of life."
• Kristin Chenoweth [62:19]: "I would definitely do Broadway again. It definitely would need to be the right situation."

This episode serves as a testament to Kristin Chenoweth's remarkable journey and her unwavering commitment to enhancing diversity and excellence in the theatrical world.