To conclude an enchanting evening celebrating “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, Ariana Grande and her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo surprised attendees with a stellar performance at the 2024 Met Gala.
A Mesmerizing Solo Performance
Against the backdrop of the Temple of Dendur, amidst a lush, forest-inspired set designed by Derek McClane, Grande began the Monday night set solo, dressed in a bespoke Maison Margiela Artisanal by John Galliano ensemble.
Grande’s Striking Ensemble
Her layered outfit featured an off-white spiderweb crinoline, a draped tulle dress adorned with rosettes, gold dust, and crystal embroideries, and custom hand-painted Tabis by Christian Louboutin for Maison Margiela. The intricate details of her attire spoke volumes about her dedication to embodying the theme of the gala.
Captivating the Audience with Musical Talent
With styling by Mimi Cuttrell and impeccable hair, makeup, and nails, Grande mesmerized the audience with a medley of her greatest hits, including nods to fairy tales like her charming rendition of “Once Upon a Dream” from Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Her powerful vocals and stage presence left the audience spellbound, further enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of the gala.
A Spectacle of Unity and Hope
Accompanied by 30 dancers and members of the 40-person Broadway Inspirational Voices choir, Grande’s performance was more than just entertainment—it was a spectacle of unity and hope. As she took center stage, surrounded by a diverse ensemble of performers, she conveyed a powerful message of solidarity and resilience through her music.
A Triumphant Duet with Cynthia Erivo
For the grand finale, Erivo joined Grande on stage for a duet of “When You Believe,” originally sung by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston in 1998. Their harmonious voices filled the room, evoking emotions of joy and inspiration among the gala attendees.
Erivo’s Stunning Presence
Erivo stunned in a square-hip dress from Thom Browne’s fall 2013 collection, styled by Jason Bolden and complemented by impeccable hair, makeup, and nails. Her radiant appearance added an extra layer of elegance to the performance, further elevating the overall experience for everyone present.
A Resounding Conclusion
Their duet marked a triumphant conclusion to the night, leaving attendees in awe of their vocal prowess and ending the evening on a resounding high note. As guests departed the gala, they carried with them memories of a truly magical performance that showcased the transformative power of music and fashion.