Cynthia Erivo Gives ‘Wicked’ Moviegoers Permission to Sing in Theaters

Ever since Wicked hit theaters on Nov. 22, it’s been widely debated whether or not fans of the musical should sing along while surrounded by other movie-goers. Much like talking and texting are frowned upon in theaters, is it rude to sing along to the beloved lyrics and potentially ruin the experience for other viewers? Or should fans of the film be empowered to lean into the joy and fun, reciting the words to their favorite songs?

Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the record-breaking box office smash, is weighing in on the discussion. As far as Erivo is concerned, fans have every right to feel emboldened to sing along.

“I’m OK with it,” Erivo said in an interview with Hoda Kotb on Thursday at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade broadcast. “We spent this long singing it ourselves, it’s time for everyone else to join in. It’s wonderful.”

Screenings of Wicked at AMC theaters display a message to viewers ahead of the film asking people not to sing or participate during the movie. A spokesperson for AMC, Ryan Noonan, explained the theater’s reasoning to the Indianapolis Star.

“AMC has a long-standing policy that prohibits disruptive behavior. The Wicked preshow spot incorporates the themes of the film as a fun, engaging reminder to moviegoers to not disrupt the experience for those around them as they enjoy the show,” he said.

But now Erivo is giving fans permission to vocalize the Wicked lyrics outloud. 

According to Variety, fans will have an opportunity to attend specific showings of Wicked across North America that are meant to be singalongs on Christmas Day.