Introduction
Wicked has become one of the most celebrated musicals since its debut on Broadway in 2003. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, it tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz. Over the years, numerous actresses have donned the green face of Elphaba, with Cynthia Erivo being one of the most talked-about in recent years. But just how much did Cynthia get paid for her role in this iconic production?
Cynthia Erivo: A Brief Background
Cynthia Erivo is a multi-talented performer known for her powerful voice and compelling stage presence. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple, which earned her a Tony Award. Her success continued as she transitioned to film and television, starring in projects like Harriet and The Outsider.
Wicked: The Financial Landscape
The financial aspects of Broadway productions are often significant. On average, lead actors in major productions can earn between $2,000 to $10,000 per week, depending on the show’s budget, the actor’s profile, and contract negotiations. In the case of Wicked, which is one of the highest-grossing shows in Broadway history, these figures can definitely soar.
Cynthia Erivo’s Contract
While specific figures are not always publicly disclosed due to privacy agreements, industry sources have estimated that Cynthia Erivo’s contract for Wicked could be in the range of:
- $5,000 to $10,000 per week for regular performances
- Potential bonuses based on ticket sales
- Plausible revenue from cast recordings and merchandise
It’s important to note that, as a high-profile actress with several accolades, her negotiating power would tend to push her salary toward the higher end of the spectrum.
Comparative Analysis
To understand Cynthia’s potential earnings better, let’s look at other actresses who have played Elphaba:
- Idina Menzel, the original Elphaba, reportedly earned around $10,000 per week during the peak of her career in Wicked.
- Jennifer DiNoia, a well-known Elphaba replacement, was said to have earned around $4,100 per week.
- Audra McDonald, who is also a Broadway icon, earned between $7,000 to $9,000 per week for her various roles.
This context provides a clearer picture of where Cynthia might stand in terms of salary considering her established reputation and experience.
Financial Benefits Beyond Base Salary
In addition to base salaries, Broadway actors enjoy various financial benefits, including:
- Royalties from cast recordings
- Merchandising rights
- Bonuses from high ticket sales or extended contracts
For instance, if Wicked continues its success in both ticket sales and merchandise, Cynthia could see additional income from these ancillary sources.
Case Study: Other Recent Broadway Stars
Broadway has seen many stars receive lucrative paychecks, contributing to a burgeoning discussion about actor compensation:
- Lin-Manuel Miranda: Creator and star of Hamilton, his salary during the show’s run was reported to be around $10,000 per week, with additional earnings from royalties.
- Ben Platt: The lead in Dear Evan Hansen was said to earn a similar wage, with the potential for additional earnings through cast album sales.
This trend illustrates that leading roles in high-demand productions often come with significantly higher-than-average salaries.
Conclusion
While the exact figure of Cynthia Erivo’s salary for her role in Wicked may not be publicly available, it is reasonable to estimate her pay to be in the $5,000 to $10,000 per week range, along with opportunities for additional income through royalties and merchandise. Given her talent and recognition, her compensation is reflective of both her skill and the draw that Wicked represents on Broadway.
