Best Kristin Chenoweth Performances, Ranked
Kristin Chenoweth is a multifaceted performer whose talents have graced stages, screens, and soundtracks with a vivacity that’s hard to match. With a career spanning many years, this diminutive star with a larger-than-life voice has given audiences some unforgettable performances. In this article, we’re ranking her top performances that have left a lasting impression.
1.Glinda in “Wicked” on Broadway – As the original Good Witch of the North in “Wicked,” Kristin Chenoweth’s performance is etched in musical theatre history. Her portrayal of Glinda was both charming and nuanced, balancing bubbly wit with moments of profound depth.
2.Olive Snook in “Pushing Daisies” – In the TV show “Pushing Daisies,” Chenoweth played Olive Snook, a lovable waitress with a big crush and an even bigger voice. The role allowed her to showcase both her comedy chops and vocal prowess, particularly in musical numbers like “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”
3.Cunegonde in “Candide” – Performing Cunegonde in Leonard Bernstein’s operetta “Candide,” Kristin Chenoweth’s rendition of “Glitter and Be Gay” showcased her commanding vocal technique and stage presence.
4.Sally Brown in “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” – Chenoweth won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Sally Brown on Broadway, infusing the character with an irresistible mix of childlike innocence and comedic flair.
5.April Rhodes in “Glee” – As April Rhodes on the television show “Glee,” Kristin brought depth to what could have been a simple guest role. Her memorable songs and complex portrayal of a fading star returning to her hometown added layers to the show’s narrative.
6.Carlotta Campion in “Follies” – In the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s “Follies,” Chenoweth brought down the house with her rendition of “I’m Still Here,” showcasing resilience through both humor and heartache.
7.Marietta Lorraine in “On The Twentieth Century” – Her 2015 return to Broadway as Hollywood diva Marietta Lorraine garnered praise for its comedic timing and vocal gymnastics, reminding audiences of her versatility as an actress.
8.Galinda/Glinda (voice) in “The Animated Wicked Movie” – Voicing Glinda in the animated adaptation of “Wicked” allowed Kristin to revisit her iconic role, giving fans new and old a taste of what made her famous but with an animated twist.
9.Fran Kubelik in “Promises, Promises” – Her turn as Fran Kubelik opposite Sean Hayes showed off Chenoweth’s range as an actress who can command drama as much as comedy—and all while singing some classic Burt Bacharach tunes.
10.Herself in “Kristin Chenoweth: The Dames of Broadway… All of ‘Em!!!” – While playing herself may seem straightforward, this one-woman show allowed Kristin to explore a variety of roles from Broadway’s best female characters while displaying her intimacy with live audiences and personal storytelling.
Kristin Chenoweth continues to dazzle audiences across all mediums with performances that demonstrate not just her talent but also her heartfelt love for the arts. Whether she’s leading a spellbinding cast or stealing scenes in support, each performance is testament to her standing as one of Broadway’s reigning queens.