Misty Copeland Dances to Cynthia Erivo's 'No Good Deed' from 'Wicked: For Good'

Misty Copeland delivered a captivating performance on November 3, 2023, dancing to Cynthia Erivo’s live rendition of "No Good Deed" at a promotional event for the upcoming soundtrack of "Wicked: For Good." This marks a significant collaboration as both talents bring their unique artistry to the beloved musical franchise.

The timing of this performance connects to the Broadway show's anticipated release of Part 2 on November 17, 2023. Erivo, who portrays Elphaba in the film adaptation, joins an esteemed cast that includes Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible. The live performance was a pivotal promotional move ahead of the soundtrack's launch.

This isn’t Copeland’s first engagement with musical projects. In 2021, she performed an original piece alongside composer Chris Botti in a concert at Carnegie Hall. Industry sources note that this trend of ballet dancers collaborating with musical artists is gaining traction, highlighting a blended approach to performance art.

Erivo's version of "No Good Deed" is significant, with previous adaptations gaining extensive acclaim. For context, the song first appeared in the 2003 Broadway production, showcasing themes of moral ambiguity and sacrifice. In fact, the original cast recording has been streamed over 45 million times on platforms like Spotify.

This performance’s synergy mirrors the collaboration between Ariana DeBose and Sheryl Lee Ralph at the 2022 Tony Awards, where DeBose danced to Ralph's powerful live rendition. Such collaborations emphasize the powerful storytelling experienced when dance and music intertwine.

In addition to the release of "Wicked: For Good," Erivo has multiple projects set to release in 2024, including a highly anticipated adaptation of "The Color Purple." This focus on cinematic projects shows the ongoing trend where stage performers are expanding their influence into mainstream film.

Moreover, Copeland continues to expand her horizons, as she will star in an upcoming biopic about her journey as the first African American female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, slated for a 2025 release. This film aligns with industry patterns promoting diversity in the performing arts.

Both Erivo and Copeland’s careers exemplify the merging of performance art, creating rich cultural narratives while pushing the boundaries of their respective crafts. The live performance at this juncture not only promotes the new soundtrack but also signifies an important moment for both artists in their evolving careers.

As the premiere date for "Wicked: For Good" approaches, audiences can expect to see both Erivo and Copeland continue to innovate and inspire. The future holds potential collaborations that fuse dance and music, reflecting society's shift towards interdisciplinary art forms.