In an exciting development for film and music fans alike, Cynthia Erivo is set to perform at the 97th Academy Awards, alongside fellow superstar Ariana Grande. This thrilling event will take place on Sunday, March 2, airing live on ABC and streaming on Hulu at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. As part of the ceremony, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will honor the iconic music of the beloved 007 franchise, although details about the tribute remain under wraps.
The Academy has been known for celebrating cinematic excellence, and this year’s Oscars will not disappoint. Recently, on February 24, it was revealed that alongside Erivo and Grande, other notable performers such as Doja Cat, Blackpink’s Lisa, Queen Latifah, and Raye will take the stage, promising a series of show-stopping performances. These acts will pay tribute to the film industry and its legends, ensuring that the evening will be filled with entertainment and nostalgia.
While the specifics regarding the performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have yet to be confirmed, many speculate that the duo, both of whom star in the upcoming film adaptation of “Wicked,” will open the show with a dynamic number. Although there were no original songs written for “Wicked” that could be nominated for an Oscar, the film’s soundtrack has gained significant popularity, making its inclusion anticipated. The film even secured an Oscar nomination for its original score crafted by John Powell and Stephen Schwartz.
The buzz surrounding Erivo and Grande’s participation is palpable, particularly given the success of the “Wicked” musical. Their presence is likely to be heavily promoted in the lead-up to the Oscars, similar to last year’s promotional strategies, such as featuring notable performances from “Barbie.” Yet, this year, the producers stirred some controversy within the Academy’s Music branch by announcing that none of the five nominated songs would be performed during the ceremony. This decision has left many artists, including legends like Elton John and 16-time nominee Diane Warren, seeking other avenues to showcase their talents.
Despite the absence of the nominated songs, the lineup of performers indicates a shift in the Oscars’ musical direction, leaning towards an exciting and diverse array of talent reminiscent of a Grammy Awards show. Raj Kapoor, one of the Oscar show producers, also played a role in producing this year’s Grammy awards, hinting at an evolving approach to integrating music into the Oscars.
As the anticipation builds for the 97th Academy Awards, the significance of Cynthia Erivo’s performance, along with that of Ariana Grande, cannot be understated. Their collaboration not only exemplifies the blending of film and music but also highlights the cultural impact that such performances can have on audiences worldwide. With the stage set for a spectacular evening, all eyes will be on Erivo and Grande as they take the spotlight, promising to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with talent, heart, and celebration of cinematic artistry.
