Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo delivered a showstopping performance at the 2025 Oscars, captivating audiences with a magical tribute to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Their performance, a blend of classic and contemporary musical interpretations, set the tone for an unforgettable evening. This article explores the details of their performance, its significance, and the audience's reaction.
A Nostalgic Opening: Homage to Classic Hollywood:
The ceremony began with a nostalgic nod to The Wizard of Oz, featuring a clip of Judy Garland's iconic 'There's no place like home.' This was followed by a montage of beloved films shot in Los Angeles, including 'Barbie,' 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,' and 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' creating a sense of solidarity and nostalgia. The message 'We <3 you LA' resonated deeply, especially following recent wildfires.
Grande's Ethereal "Somewhere Over the Rainbow":
Ariana Grande, adorned in a ruby red gown, opened the musical tribute with a stunning rendition of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow.' Her ethereal vocals evoked the magic of the 1939 film, stirring emotions and bringing tears to many in the audience. The ruby slipper detail on her dress was a clever nod to Dorothy's iconic footwear.
Erivo's Powerful "Home":
Cynthia Erivo followed with a powerful performance of 'Home' from 'The Wiz,' infusing the song with depth and resonance. Her vocals paid tribute to the 1978 reimagining, which featured Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. The juxtaposition of Grande's dreamy harmonies and Erivo's rich tones created a captivating musical tapestry.
"Defying Gravity": A Climax of "Wicked" Power:
The performance reached its climax as Grande and Erivo transitioned into their 'Wicked' personas. Erivo launched into an electrifying rendition of 'Defying Gravity,' ascending into the air as her voice soared through the auditorium. The audience was captivated by the spectacle, rising to their feet in admiration. The performance captured the themes of ambition, power, and the indomitable spirit of Elphaba.
Audience Reaction and Lasting Impact:
The performance concluded with thunderous applause and a standing ovation, reflecting the audience's admiration for Grande and Erivo's talent. Their performance illuminated the Oscars, capturing the essence of dreams, artistry, and the power of music. The performance will be remembered as one of the most memorable of the night
