Oscars Get ‘Wicked:’ Show Opens with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Performing Melody

The 2025 Oscars kicked off dazzlingly as Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday (March 2) for a stunning musical tribute to The Wizard of Oz.

Grande, dressed in a shimmering red gown reminiscent of Dorothy’s ruby slippers, opened the show with a heartfelt rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow from the 1939 classic. As she exited, Erivo appeared in a flowing white gown adorned with purple flowers, delivering a powerful performance of Home from 1978’s The Wiz, made famous by Diana Ross.

The soaring medley set the tone for a night of celebration, honoring The Wizard of Oz’s timeless legacy while showcasing the Wicked duo’s vocal brilliance.