Courtesy of BluPRint Public Relations
As Wicked: For Good premiered in New York City, Scarlett Spears chats with Vogue Philippines.
At movie theaters all over the world, the crowd queues in long lines, dressed in various shades of green and pink, accessorized with tiaras and witch hats. They couldn’t be happier, because after a year of waiting, Wicked: For Good is finally in cinemas. A sequel to Wicked, the film is a screen adaptation of the stage musical’s second act. With it comes new additions to the story: two new songs for Elphaba and Glinda, a change in Nessarose’s story, and new scenes written for the film.
One of which shows a glimpse into Glinda’s past. Meet Scarlett Spears, the eight-year-old actress, model, and dancer who plays young Glinda in Wicked: For Good. In a short interview with Vogue Philippines, Spears talks about manifesting the role, working on set, and all things Wicked.
How did you feel when you first found out you got the role in Wicked: For Good?
When I found out I booked the role in Wicked: For Good, I was so shocked and so excited. I honestly couldn’t believe it. I started crying and thanking Jesus because it felt like such a blessing and an answer to my prayers.
What was your reaction when you first stepped onto the set of Wicked: For Good? Was it everything you imagined, or did it surprise you in some way?
When I first stepped onto the set, I was completely amazed! The sets were huge and absolutely beautiful. Definitely the biggest and most detailed I’ve ever seen in my life. The one I worked on was gorgeous, and all the props were so cool. It really felt like stepping into another world.
What do you like most about the character you’re playing?
What I love most about playing young Glinda is how similar we are. She’s funny, sweet, and bubbly, just like me.
What has been your favorite moment in rehearsals so far?
My favorite rehearsal moment so far was watching Ariana and her friends practice their dance numbers. It was so cool to see them work. One of her dancers was even dancing with me. I loved it.
What’s something fun or surprising you’ve learned while working on this production?
Something that really surprised me was the fans. I had no idea how many millions of people all over the world love this story. I had no idea how meaningful and impactful this movie was.
How would you describe your castmates? Do you have any stories from behind the scenes?
My castmates are amazing. Ari is so kind and so beautiful. She complimented me all the time, and I absolutely love her. Ethan is the sweetest. Every time he sees me, he shows so much appreciation. Bowen and Bronwyn are hilarious and so fun to hang out with. And when I met Cynthia, she was incredibly nice to me.
Do you have a favorite song or scene in Wicked: For Good? Why does it stand out to you?
My favorite scene is… the one I’m in, of course! It was so much fun to film, and it turned out so beautiful. I also really love the song “Girl in the Bubble.” It’s one of my favorites.
What do you think you’ve learned about yourself as an artist during the process of preparing for this role?
Preparing for this role taught me how important it is to study the character you’re playing, to understand how she talks, moves, and most importantly, how she “toss toss!” I practiced that a lot, and I think I nailed it.
We heard you manifested this role for yourself. Can you tell us how that happened?
Yes, after watching the movie in theaters, I told my mom that I would love to be in Wicked someday. I put it out into the universe and prayed about it, and it actually happened! I even have a vision board we made where I’m dressed up as all the characters.
You’re part of a huge legacy now with Wicked. Have you had any memorable interactions with your co-stars Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, or your director, Jon Chu?
My bond with Ariana is stronger than I could have ever dreamed. I would absolutely love to collaborate with her again someday. I hope we will be in each other’s lives forever. She has been incredibly kind to me. I also had the pleasure of meeting Cynthia once, and she was genuinely so sweet. I really appreciated that. As for Jon, he is truly just amazing! He is incredibly nice and a genius with all of his ideas. I am manifesting the chance to work with him again as we speak.
In addition to acting, do you have any creative outlets or hobbies that help you recharge or express yourself outside of performing?
I’m both a dancer and a singer! I train in hip hop, acro, musical theatre, jazz, and tap. I love expressing myself through dance, and maybe one day I’ll even make it to Broadway.
As a young actress, how do you stay grounded and focused in such a high-pressure environment like the entertainment industry?
I stay focused by praying and saying daily affirmations. I know how cool what I do is. I’m just so grateful to do what I get to do. It’s just so fun! When I am not acting, I’m just at home being a regular kid.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to doing next, either in performing or outside of it?
I would love to be in another movie or even have my own show on Disney or Nickelodeon someday. That would be an absolute dream!
