Cynthia Erivo The Greatest Showman
Can a single performance truly redefine a career? For Cynthia Erivo, the answer, though nuanced, undeniably points to the transformative power of artistry and the enduring legacy of The Greatest Showman.
Released in 2017, The Greatest Showman emerged as a vibrant cinematic tapestry, woven with threads of showmanship, inclusivity, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. While the film itself captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, the contributions of individual talents elevated it to a higher plane. Cynthia Erivo's involvement, though not in a leading role in the film, resonated deeply, adding a layer of emotional richness that enriched the film's narrative and its impact. Her journey, like the film's narrative, is a compelling story of passion, perseverance, and exceptional artistry.
Erivo, a British actress and singer, has ascended to the heights of the entertainment industry with a remarkable combination of vocal prowess and acting skill. Born on January 8, 1987, in London, England, her trajectory began on the stage, where her raw talent and compelling stage presence quickly garnered recognition. She didn't feature in the original cast of the movie, but she was involved in the rehearsals, which helped to shape the movie.
| Full Name: | Cynthia Onyedinmanazu Erivo |
| Date of Birth: | January 8, 1987 |
| Place of Birth: | London, England |
| Nationality: | British |
| Occupation: | Actress, Singer, Songwriter, Producer |
| Known For: | Broadway, Film, Television |
| Notable Awards: | Tony Award, Grammy Award, Daytime Emmy Award |
| Significant Roles: | The Color Purple (Broadway), Harriet (Film), Genius: Aretha (TV Series) |
| Musical Style: | Gospel, R&B, Soul, Musical Theatre |
| Associated Acts: | Hugh Jackman, Keala Settle, Jeremy Jordan |
| Official Website: | https://www.cynthiaerivo.com/ |
The impact of The Greatest Showman extended far beyond the box office. Pasek and Paul, the dynamic duo behind the musical's score, crafted songs that not only fueled the narrative but also showcased the extraordinary talents of the cast. The film's rehearsal phase itself was a collaborative environment, and Broadway voices, including Erivo, Keala Settle (who was cast as the Bearded Lady in the film), and Tameka Lawrence, sang the music of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul in the initial stages.
Videos, like those shared on platforms such as TikTok by users like @pasekandpaul and @shanamariano, provide glimpses into the film's genesis and the power of individual performances. One video from 2016 features Erivo in a captivating duet of "Rewrite the Stars". These snippets offer a glimpse into the film's essence and the artists' commitment to the project. Another, from the 28th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in 2017, captures the emotional depth of her rendition of "Imagine," dedicated to the victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting.
The film's premiere, a theatrical debut in the U.S., marked a significant moment for all involved. This film was a testament to the collective effort of its creators, actors, and the studio's willingness to bring it to life.
While The Greatest Showman was a triumph for musical theatre in the cinematic world, other similar projects have met with varied reception. Wicked, a beloved stage production, received a film adaptation. Although it features talents like Keala Settle, the film's success may vary in the way it utilizes its cast's full potential compared to the way The Greatest Showman did. The film may ultimately fall short of fully leveraging the star power of its major Broadway talents.
The genesis of a big-budget musical like The Greatest Showman is a multifaceted process. The original screenplay came to life through the collective efforts of several talented writers. Jenny Bicks, known for her work on Sex and the City, and Jordan Roberts of Big Hero 6 penned the initial screenplay drafts. Subsequent drafts were written by Bill Condon, of Dreamgirls fame, with the final draft solidifying the project's path. This collaborative environment ensured the quality of the musical numbers.
Erivos involvement in The Greatest Showman, highlighted her incredible talent and versatility as an artist. While not always in the forefront, her contributions enriched the emotional core of the musical numbers. Her contributions have left their mark on audiences worldwide.
In a career filled with accolades and groundbreaking performances, Erivos talent continues to shine. She is one of the few individuals nominated for an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award (EGOT), winning all but the Oscar. Her participation in the exclusive salon for the Dramatists Guild Foundation, alongside the Tony and Grammy winner, showcased her presence among the industry's elite.
The enduring appeal of The Greatest Showman and the continued rise of Cynthia Erivo's career serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of artistic collaboration and the enduring magic of dreams realized.
