I can't even see Ariana as Glinda. I cannot see her pull off the beginning with "No One Mourns the Wicked." I can only see her pull off "What is This Feeling", "Popular", and maybe "For Good". I know she can pull off "Popular" because she plays a bubbly, dumb, girl on "Sam and Cat", and she covered "Popular", but with more positive lyrics and auto tune. However, she may be able to pull off the role of Nessarose. As for Liz Gillies, I can definetely see her as Elphaba, but I think they may need to cast a bigger name. Anna Kendrick is still at the top of my list, but I seriously don't know who should play Elphaba, or Glinda. I say they just animate the darn movie, and have Idina and Kristin reprise their roles. And if Kristin can't do it, cast Megan Hilty.
Note: I absolutely love Ariana Grande's voice, and I would love to see her hit the Great White Way soon (just not in Wicked). Also, does anyone else think Liz Gillies would've made a really good Wednesday Addams? Updated On: 7/1/14 at 06:16 PM
You know what? After some reconsideration, I would love to see Liz Gilles and Ariana Grande in the lead roles. My trouble with Ariana Grande is I have yet to see her emotionally complex and serious side. I can definitely see her pull of Galinda, but not Glinda. Meaning, I can see her pull of the fun, bubbly, blonde, in college, but when she becomes an adult, I just don't see it, especially during "Thank Goodness". Also, Ariana Grande has a very soulful voice, which I feel is sort of wrong for Glinda. In my opinion, Glinda should have a more classical voice, but who knows, maybe in the near future I will see this side of Ms Grande that I need to see to want her in this role.
Liz Gillies and Ariana Grande would be great for the roles. I would, however, love to see Lea Michele playing Elphaba... I think her and Ariana could do it greatly. Personally, I think Ariana can be a serious actress, but she just hasn't had the chance to show it.
Ariana can definitely play a serious actress. No One Mourns The Wicked is a bit of an interesting topic for anyone who is a possible Glinda.
It's difficult to imagine most singers pulling off that song because it's not a very conventional way of singing in musical theatre or pop.
I think Ariana can pull it off though. She's good with the lighter head voice stuff. She has access to her whistle register as well which might bring something nice to the role.