This week on Broadway, Lencia Kebede marked a significant milestone by being the first Black actor to embody the role of Elphaba full time in the production of “Wicked.” Following her debut, Kebede, still animated from the experience, expressed the myriad emotions she felt, likening it to the magical land of Oz.
Growing up as a first-generation Ethiopian American in Los Angeles, Kebede spent five years touring with “Hamilton,” ultimately playing Angelica Schuyler. Tuesday was her first time performing on Broadway in “Wicked.”
The character Elphaba has a powerful moment in the first act with the song “Defying Gravity.” During her performance, Kebede felt the enormity of the moment. She describes how the conclusion of the song left her in tears, overwhelmed by the sense of flying. To her, it felt as if she were harnessing the strength of her own voice and emotions, alongside the power of her African heritage.
Singing, “Everyone deserves a chance to fly,” Kebede feels she delivers a universal message. She believes everyone deserves freedom and empowerment, taking the audience along on a journey with her character.
With intermission providing a brief respite, Kebede took solace in the support of her makeup artist, who encouraged her to release her emotions freely.
Kebede’s debut was witnessed by a supportive crowd of about 60 family members and friends, including her mom, extended family, close friends, and mentors. The presence of loved ones amplified the significance of the occasion for her.
Despite the attention garnered by the Cynthia Erivo-led movie, the Broadway version of “Wicked” remains as popular as ever, setting records during Christmas with over $5 million in earnings from nine performances. Kebede joins fellow Black women who have portrayed Elphaba, sharing this stage with the likes of Saycon Sengbloh and Lilli Cooper, among others.
Lencia Kebede’s path to Broadway wasn’t straightforward. Graduating from Occidental College in 2016 with ambitions in law or policy, she felt an irresistible pull towards the arts by her senior year. She confided in her mother about her aspirations, which led her to roles in productions like “Memphis” and “Rent,” along with singing backup for Beyoncé at Coachella rehearsals.
The rigorous demands of her touring life prepared Kebede for the challenges of starring in “Wicked.” She feels armed both physically and emotionally for each performance, having developed ways to manage her energy and emotions throughout the intense experience.
On her debut night, Kebede made efforts to etch memories in her heart. The support from her family, including a moment of reflection for her late grandmother and father, left her feeling surrounded by love and electricity.
After the performance, family and friends joined Kebede for warm celebrations. It wasn’t until she was back home, drinking tea and listening to calming music, that she could begin to unwind. Yet, with all the excitement behind her, another performance awaited her the next night.
