Cynthia Erivo Announced As WorldPride Headliner In D.C.
Cynthia Erivo will perform as part of the Street Festival and Concert, against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol.
Cynthia Erivo is set to take center stage at WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., headlining the highly anticipated Street Festival and Concert on June 7. The Wicked star will deliver a powerhouse performance against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol, bringing her talent and unwavering advocacy to one of the world’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebrations.
This year’s WorldPride theme, “The Fabric of Freedom,” feels particularly pointed, as the celebration will unfold in a D.C. landscape that has been reshaped by Trump’s reemergence onto the political stage. The Kennedy Center, where Trump has controversially installed himself as chairman, has been systematically canceling Pride-related events, reinforcing the stark contrast between the inclusive spirit of WorldPride and the regressive forces at play in the nation’s capital.
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Despite these challenges, WorldPride organizers are forging ahead, determined to make this year’s celebration a testament to resilience, visibility, and joy. “Cynthia Erivo’s powerful artistry and unwavering advocacy make her the perfect artist to headline this momentous event,” Ryan Bos, executive director of Capital Pride Alliance, told MetroWeekly. “We’re thrilled to have such great talent wanting to be a part of WorldPride. This is a time where we need folks who feel comfortable to stand up in solidarity with our community.”
Bos also spoke to the challenge of programming such a massive event. “There will be millions of people in Washington, so we need to ensure that we provide a diverse set of experiences for folks to enjoy. Not everyone will fit over at RFK or on Pennsylvania Avenue, but we’re excited to offer something for everyone.”
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Erivo’s headline performance at WorldPride is just one highlight of her summer. In July, she will take on the titular role in a three-day production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl—a casting move that had some corners of the internet fuming.
Her WorldPride appearance comes with a choice for attendees. Erivo will be sharing the Saturday night spotlight with Jennifer Lopez, who is headlining the WorldPride Music Festival at RFK Stadium. But there will be no shortage of events, performances, and opportunities for revelry throughout the weekend.
