'I Have Never Wanted Anything More'

Ariana Grande speaks to Katie Ellis about landing her dream role of Glinda in Wicked, taking voice and acting lessons, and developing a special bond with co-star Cynthia Erivo

How much pressure is there to bring a show as loved as Wicked to the big screen?

There is always an incredible amount of pressure doing anything with something as beloved as Wicked. But, I am a diehard fan too. I love the show, and this film takes the tradition of what we have loved over the past 20 years, and finds new truths and depth to the characters.

You won the part of Glinda against some stiff opposition. How did you feel when you were told the role was yours?

Amazing. It was the best day of my life. It was six months of auditions and prepping. I was shooting The Voice at the same time, so it was a lot. But (voice coach) Nancy Banks and (acting coach) Eric Vetro got me through. I worked with them every single day while also doing The Voice. It was tough but fun.

It's hard to imagine anyone else as Glinda now. Did you always know you were perfect for the role?