“Defy Gravity”
💡 Startups are all about daring to do what others say is impossible—just like Elphaba in Wicked. Whether you’re challenging industry norms or creating something completely new, remember: to succeed, you often have to “defy gravity.” Ready to take your idea to new heights? 🎭 Check out Wicked in theaters- now playing- for a little inspiration (and an epic soundtrack)!
5 Wicked Lessons for Founders…
- Ideas are a dime-a-dozen .. follow Inspiration with ACTION
The musical is based on the 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire. Composer Stephen Schwartz was inspired to adapt Wicked after reading Gregory Maguire’s novel during a flight. Upon landing, he immediately contacted Maguire to secure the rights.
- Build to scale: a lesson in longevity
Wicked’s creators have definitely found product-market-fit. Wicked is one of Broadway’s longest-running shows, having premiered on October 30, 2003, at the Gershwin Theatre. Its Broadway debut grossed over $1.7 million in opening week, setting a record at the time, and consistently ranks as one of the highest-grossing shows in history. Building on that success, Wicked continues to add innovative revenue streams, including the newly released live action movie. Let’s celebrate the creators and change-makers who build lasting impact, not just illusions!
- Prioritize the Customer Experience, even when it’s hard
Director of the new Wicked movie, Jon M. Chu insisted on building large-scale physical sets for Wicked rather than relying heavily on CGI, including a 16-ton moving train, growing nine million tulips to authentically depict Munchkin Land, and building elaborate structures like the Emerald City and Shiz University.
This commitment to provide a tangible and immersive experience for the actors and audience mirrors how startups can stand out by prioritizing authentic, customer-centric solutions over shortcuts or flashy but insubstantial features. For startups, this is a reminder that the extra effort to create something “real” can yield a uniquely impactful product.
- How to Nail Your Dream Role (or Goal): Lessons from Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s path to playing Glinda in Wicked is a masterclass in setting goals and sticking to them. She first saw the musical at age 10 and declared it her dream role. Fast forward to today, and she’s living that dream in the movie adaptation.
For founders, her story is a reminder that vocalizing your goals and staying focused can pay off. Whether it’s pitching to investors until you get a “yes”, or refining your products until you find product-market-fit, persistence is key. Just like Ariana waited for her moment to shine, your breakthrough might be right around the corner.
- You are Capable of Defying Gravity: Lessons from Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is one of the rare artists to be an EGOT contender, having won a Tony, Grammy, and Daytime Emmy. She’s one Oscar away from the full sweep, and uses her platform to advocate for diversity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment in the arts.
Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and breaking barriers. Known for her meticulous approach to storytelling, Erivo has redefined the character with distinct physicality and emotional depth, proving that reinvention can honor tradition while forging new paths.
For founders, Erivo’s journey reminds us that resilience and authenticity are key to building something extraordinary. Just as she reshaped an iconic role to reflect her truth, entrepreneurs can create innovations that challenge norms and leave a lasting impact.
There’s no rest for the wicked, nor often for startup founders. However, I suggest you take a break and go see Wicked now playing in theaters! Keep defying gravity, founders. You got this.
By Madeline Feldman
