Could Jordin Sparks Fly to the Heights of Broadway’s Wicked?

Now that American Idol winner Jordin Sparks has made her official Broadway debut as Nina in In the Heights, Broadway.com was curious about which other musicals she'd like to tackle, should she continue to call Broadway 'home.' “Wicked is an amazing show that really touched me when I saw it,” the pop star and budding actress said at her opening night party on September 14. “I love that [Mandy Gonzalez] who originated the role of Nina is now playing Elphaba. Our [In the Heights performance] schedule is different from Wicked's so I hope I get to see her in it soon.”

While Gonzalez has yet to catch Sparks’ performance, she has no doubt the Grammy nominee is doing Nina justice. “She’s such a sweetheart,” Gonzalez said of Sparks. “We met backstage at Chris Jackson’s final show, and she’s just a doll. I’ve heard she’s doing some great things, so I’m very proud. Nina Rosario is so honest and raw, you just have to bring yourself to the role and I’m sure she’s doing it beautifully.”

Gonzalez has been going green as Wicked’s leading witch for six months now and knows Sparks would have a blast if she ever follows the yellow brick road to the Emerald City. “From the moment I start getting painted all the way up to the end of the show is a thrill,” she said. But watch out, Jordin: That green make-up can be pesky! “It’s a pain getting it out of my hairline,” said Gonzalez. “It stays there through the whole week, but it’s a small price to pay for such a fantastic responsibility!”