Kristin Chenoweth Discusses Wicked, Queen of Versailles, and Broadway Career
Kristin Chenoweth is stepping into a new role that showcases a different side of her talent. The Broadway star, known for her bubbly portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, is now starring in the musical adaptation of the 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles. In this production, she plays Jackie Siegel, the wife of time-share mogul David Siegel, bringing depth to a character far removed from her usual cheerful roles.
From Wicked to The Queen of Versailles
The Queen of Versailles features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, the renowned composer behind Wicked. This new work, which premieres on November 9, dives into themes of wealth and societal issues, reminiscent of contemporary political divides. Additionally, it raises questions about consumerism and the impact of immense wealth on personal values.
The Challenges of a New Musical
Chenoweth described the process of creating a new musical as daunting. She noted, “Mounting a new musical is the hardest thing to do, period.” Balancing her roles as both star and producer adds to the pressure. Chenoweth appreciates Schwartz’s contributions and emphasizes the importance of music in storytelling.
- Premiere Date: November 9
- Role: Jackie Siegel
- Composer: Stephen Schwartz
- Themes: Wealth, societal divisions, and consumer culture
Addressing Controversy
Recently, Chenoweth faced backlash from some members of the LGBTQ+ community after a comment regarding right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk. This incident, which occurred following Kirk’s assassination on September 10, stirred public scrutiny. In a later interview, Chenoweth expressed that it was a challenging moment for her but emphasized her continued support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Reflections on Career and Art
In discussing her career, Chenoweth reflected on the significance of her past roles and their impact on modern audiences. She compared her journey through Broadway with her experiences on television, particularly highlighting her time on The West Wing. This duality of stage and screen has shaped her artistic identity.
The Queen of Versailles is not only a personal exploration for Chenoweth but also a commentary on contemporary society. “It shines a mirror on all of us,” she stated, hinting at the darker turns within the narrative. This bold approach contrasts with the safe fare traditionally associated with Broadway, making it an ambitious venture for Chenoweth as she re-establishes her presence on stage.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for the debut of The Queen of Versailles, Chenoweth also anticipates the release of Wicked: For Good, expected to hit cinemas on November 21. Although she won’t be appearing in the sequel, she expressed excitement about its release and trust in the new cast.
In conclusion, Kristin Chenoweth’s return to Broadway encapsulates her growth as an artist. She is embracing challenges, taking risks, and ready to engage audiences with thought-provoking content that reflects current societal issues.
