AceShowbiz - The 97th Annual Academy Awards began on a high note, literally, as Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, stars of the hit film "Wicked", brought the house down with their impressive musical talents. Dressed to channel iconic characters from the fabled "Wizard of Oz" tale, the pair delivered a trio of songs that resonated with the audience.

Following a tribute to Los Angeles, the performance kicked off with Ariana Grande dazzling in a sparkly red dress that echoed Dorothy's ruby slippers. She performed Judy Garland's evergreen classic, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," setting a nostalgic yet exhilarating tone for the evening.

Grande momentarily stepped aside, allowing Cynthia Erivo to take the center stage with her soulful performance of "Home" from "The Wiz". Erivo adorned a strapless white gown with purple flowers, reminiscent of Diana Ross' costume, with a unique twist; the dress transitioned to green at the bottom, a nod to Erivo's "Wicked" character Elphaba.

As the final song "Defying Gravity" began, Grande returned and together with Erivo, they delivered an awe-inspiring high note that brought the audience to its feet in a standing ovation. The camera captured the emotional response from "Wicked" director Jon M. Chu and co-star Michelle Yeoh, who were visibly moved by the performance.

Earlier in the year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had promised a "spellbinding" performance from the "Wicked" stars, and they certainly delivered.

Grande shared the rigorous preparation she underwent for her role on Amazon Music's "Zach Sang Show", "I trained every single day to prove to [Wicked producers] that I could handle taking on this other person."

Similarly, Erivo spoke about the physical and vocal demands of her movie role, highlighting the dedication required to perform while harnessed mid-air.

In addition to Grande and Erivo, the Oscars lineup featured performances from Doja Cat, Lisa of BLACKPINK, and Raye, emphasizing the night's commitment to celebrating music and film. The ceremony included a special appearance by the Los Angeles Master Chorale, adding to the evening's grandeur.

Both Grande and Erivo were nominated for their roles in "Wicked", with Grande contending for best supporting actress and Erivo for best actress. As the night concluded, it was clear that their performances had left an indelible mark, both onstage and in the audience's hearts.

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, aired live coast-to-coast from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on ABC and Hulu, featuring not just stellar performances but also setting a stage for cinematic magic.