Black representation in Wicked is getting attention as everyone buzzes about Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in the film adaptation. However, Erivo is not the first Black woman to hold the role. Since the musical’s Broadway debut in 2003, several Black women have portrayed either Elphaba or Glinda in major productions. It’s time to give flowers to the trailblazing Black performers who came before Erivo and those currently bringing these iconic roles to life.
Want to read up on more Wicked news? We discuss the U.K.’s erasure of Cynthia Erivo during the Wicked movie promotion and explore the cultural significance of Elphaba’s microbraids in the film adaptation.
Lack of diversity in the cast of Wicked
Cynthia Erivo’s casting as Elphaba has sparked widespread conversation about diversity in musical theatre. During the Wicked movie promotion, Erivo herself acknowledged the significance of her casting, sharing that she initially doubted she’d be considered for the role because she’s Black. She expressed to the New York Times:
Historically, Black women have never really been seen for the role. If they have, they haven’t gotten the role, and if they do, they usually are the alternate or first cover. There’s only one woman I know on record that has done it on the West End and she did it once and has never been brought back. So I just didn’t think they were looking for me.
Erivo’s reflection aligns with the reality many Black actresses have faced. She appears to reference Alexia Khadime, who made history as the first Black woman to play Elphaba full-time in London’s West End. Khadime’s initial run spanned from 2008 to 2010, and she returned to the role in 2023.
Who was the first Black Elphaba?
Saycon Sengbloh holds the distinction of being the first Black actress to perform as Elphaba on Broadway. She served as a standby for the role in 2005, paving the way for others.
Other Black Women Who Have Played Elphaba
- Brandi Chavonne Massey: Ensemble member and understudy from 2003 to 2006.
- Lilli Cooper: Standby from 2014 to 2015.
- Emmy Raver-Lampman: Understudy during the same period as Cooper.
- Alexia Khadime: The first full-time Black Elphaba on the West End (2008–2010; returned in 2023).
Has there been a Black Glinda?
Yes! In 2022, Brittney Johnson became the first Black actress to perform as Glinda full-time on Broadway. Before that, she served as an understudy beginning in 2018. Over in the West End, Lucy St. Louis currently stars as Glinda, marking another milestone for Black representation in the production.
As Black women began taking on roles in Wicked, breakthroughs extended beyond Elphaba and Glinda. In 2016, Sheryl Lee Ralph became the first Black actress to portray Madame Morrible on Broadway, adding her voice to the show’s legacy.
Black Representation in Wicked for 2025
Representation in Wicked continues to evolve. There’s speculation that Lencia Kebede will become the first Black principal Elphaba on Broadway in March 2025. Additionally, Wicked alum Sheryl Lee Ralph has taken on the role of Madame Morrible, further diversifying the cast.
Cynthia Erivo’s depiction of Elphaba in the film adaptation, complete with microbraids, marks a significant cultural moment. However, it’s equally important to honor the Black women who’ve paved the way, proving that representation in musical theatre is a journey of persistence, talent, and breaking barriers.
