The 97th Annual Academy Awards is set to be a spectacle of musical talent, featuring an ensemble of artists that spans various genres and backgrounds. This year’s confirmed performers include powerhouse names like Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, LISA from Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and RAYE. The Academy promises these performances will be “showstopping,” aimed at honoring not just the nominees, but the entire filmmaking community. The Los Angeles Master Chorale will also make a special appearance, adding a unique choral dimension to the evening’s entertainment.
The anticipation surrounding this year’s ceremony has been palpable, particularly with the inclusion of Erivo and Grande, who have both gained significant acclaim for their roles in the film adaptation of *Wicked*. Although it has been widely speculated that they will contribute to the show’s opening act, specific details about their performance and song choice remain tightly under wraps, reflecting a conscious effort by the Academy to amplify intrigue. Given the commercial success of *Wicked*, it is nearly inconceivable that the production will not address this cultural phenomenon during the Oscars.
One notable change this year is the Academy’s decision not to feature any of the five nominated songs from this season. This announcement was particularly surprising, as it came just a day prior to the reveal of this year’s nominations. Indeed, potential performers such as Elton John, Selena Gomez, and Diane Warren were on the list of artists who typically might grace the Oscars stage, their absence raising questions among industry insiders and fans alike. The Academy’s choice to focus on a more eclectic selection of performers this year marks a significant departure from tradition and perhaps signifies a desire to capture a younger, more diverse audience.
The inclusion of contemporary artists such as Doja Cat and LISA aligns more closely with the musical sensibilities often seen at events like the Grammy Awards than what has been historically presented at the Oscars. This could be seen as a strategic move as the Oscars aim to secure higher ratings by resonating with broader demographics. Such programming decisions point to an evolving understanding of entertainment value in award shows, adapting to the generational shifts in music consumption.
With producers like Raj Kapoor, who has previously worked on the Grammy production, at the helm, there is a clear intention to mix the glamour of the Academy Awards with a more upbeat, celebratory atmosphere often found at music-centric award shows. The show’s approach to promoting its musical segments suggests a desire to entice viewers who may typically tune into the Grammys rather than the Oscars. The cross-pollination of different artistic platforms could lead to a refreshed audience engagement strategy, enticing performances and generating buzz surrounding the event.
As the film industry navigates the complexities of audience expectations in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape, the relevance of such changes cannot be understated. The Oscars, long revered for their artistry and solemnity, are now embracing a more contemporary look and feel—one that aligns with the cultural zeitgeist and the evolving narratives in music and film. This formula could infuse a newfound sense of excitement into an event that has sometimes been viewed as overly traditional or disconnected from current trends.
As the date approaches—March 2, 2025—anticipation is building for this year’s telecast hosted by Conan O’Brien. The event will air live on ABC and stream on Hulu, allowing for maximum accessibility. The red carpet will precede the awards ceremony, giving fans a chance to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars as they arrive.
With the dynamic lineup of performers and strategic shifts in programming, the 97th Academy Awards promises to be a celebration unlike any other. The blend of established icons with fresh faces suggests an evening rich in talent, creativity, and perhaps a few surprises, capturing the essence of both the film industry and the music world. As we countdown to the event, one can only wonder how this fusion of artistry will resonate with audiences, keeping the spirit of the Oscars alive in a new age.
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