Lencia Kebede has made history as the first Black actor to portray Elphaba full-time in the Broadway musical Wicked, a role previously held by only one Black woman in a professional setting. She succeeds Mary Kate Morrisey and will share the stage with Allie Trimm, who takes on the role of Glinda. Kebede, recognized for her prior roles in Hamilton and Rent, expressed her gratitude in a press release, emphasizing the importance of representation for diverse artists in theater. Cynthia Erivo, who starred as Elphaba in the recent film adaptation, also highlighted the need for broader opportunities for Black performers in theater.
Kebede expressed gratitude towards her supporters, stating: "Thank you to everyone who has ever believed in me. For the dreamers, the different, and the defiant-it's our turn to fly."
Erivo emphasized the significance of representation, stating: "When you're in this skin and you walk around, you are immediately an 'other.' It was a really wonderful experience to be able to step into this role, outside of my own skin."
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