Cynthia Erivo, the star of Wicked, says she doesn’t mind audiences singing along to the show in theatres.
“Good! I’m fine with it,” she stated during an interview with Today’s Hoda Kotb, Al Roker, and Savannah Guthrie during today’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “We’ve been singing it for so long; now it’s time for everyone else to join in.” It’s wonderful.
Erivo stars as Elphaba in Jon M. Chu’s cinematic adaptation of the musical, which has broken box office records.
Fans singing along during the film’s screenings ignited an online debate regarding audience behaviour in theatres. Some theatre managers have demanded that moviegoers remain silent throughout the show.
Ryan Noonan, spokeswoman for AMC Theatres, told the Indianapolis Star that the company has encouraged patrons not to sing during the musical to avoid disruptions.
“AMC has a long-standing policy that prohibits disruptive behaviour,” he informed the publication. “The ‘Wicked’ preshow spot [which includes ‘no singing’] incorporates the themes of the film as a fun, engaging reminder to moviegoers to not disrupt the experience for those around them as they enjoy the show.”
Erivo is enjoying being a part of the film, telling Kotb, Roker, and Guthrie, “It’s the most wonderful, unbelievable experience ever.” This is a fantastic thing to be able to share with others. We’ve been keeping it to ourselves, but now everyone can view it.”
During the broadcast, Erivo also presented Kotb with a bouquet of flowers as an homage to the long-time Today co-host, who will leave in January.
“Before you even begin, these flowers are for you because I know this is the last Thanksgiving parade you’re doing, and I wanted to celebrate that, and I wanted to say we love you,” Erivo was telling Kotb. “Thank you for all of the hard work you’ve done for all of these years.”