Rachel Zegler did actually sing in the 2021 version of West Side Story. This was a departure from the 1961 film, where the actors lip-synched to the voices of ghost singers. In the latest adaptation, the ensemble cast, particularly Zegler and Ansel Elgort, who played the lead roles of Maria and Tony, lent their own voices to the iconic songs of Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein.
One of the reasons why this decision was made was to bring authenticity and emotional depth to the performances. By allowing the actors to sing their own parts, the audience could connect with the characters on a more intimate level. Zegler’s beautiful and powerful vocals added a new dimension to Maria’s character, allowing her to fully express the range of emotions she experiences throughout the story.
As an expert, I must also mention that Zegler’s casting in the role of Maria was highly praised. Not only does she possess a remarkable singing voice, but she also brought a fresh and captivating presence to the character. Her portrayal of Maria was heartfelt and vulnerable, and her singing added an extra layer of emotion to the already poignant scenes.
It’s worth noting that Zegler’s journey to landing the role of Maria in West Side Story is quite remarkable. She was a relatively unknown actress, who had gained attention through her homemade YouTube videos of herself singing. After submitting an audition tape for the film, she was chosen out of thousands of applicants to play the lead role. This Cinderella-like story added to the anticipation and excitement surrounding her performance.
Rachel Zegler did indeed sing in the 2021 version of West Side Story. Her powerful and emotional vocals, coupled with her remarkable portrayal of Maria, added depth and authenticity to the film. This decision to have the actors perform their own songs allowed for a more intimate connection between the characters and the audience, making the overall experience even more impactful.