Cynthia Erivo, James Mangold to be honored at Sundance’s Park City gala

Cynthia Erivo (left) and James Mangold (right) are the recipients of this year's Visionary and Trailblazer awards at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival’s gala fundraiser. Photo: Sundance Institute

PARK CITY, Utah— Two entertainment powerhouses will be honored at next month’s Sundance Film Festival, with filmmaker James Mangold and “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo set to receive special recognition during the festival’s annual fundraising gala.

The nonprofit Sundance Institute announced Wednesday that Mangold will receive the Trailblazer Award, while Erivo will be presented with the Visionary Award at the January 24 ceremony at Park City’s Grand Hyatt Deer Valley.

Mangold’s connection to Park City runs deep. The “Ford v. Ferrari” director first developed his screenplay for “Copland” at the Sundance Labs in 1994, and his directorial debut “Heavy” won the Special Jury Prize for Directing at the 1995 festival.

“Sundance has been many things in my life; a far away dream on a mountain, a laboratory at which I developed the script for Cop Land, a festival at which I debuted Heavy, my first feature, and later, a place I have proudly mentored talented young filmmakers,” Mangold said. “I am floored and flattered that Sundance thought my body of work was worthy of this honor.”

Erivo, who is currently starring as Elphaba in “Wicked,” has her own Park City history. She served as a jury member during the festival’s virtual edition in 2021 and returned in 2023 as both actor and producer for her performance in “Drift.”

“Receiving the Visionary Award is an honor that fills me with immense gratitude,” Erivo said. “Sundance has always been a sanctuary for bold voices and transformative narratives, and to be a part of and recognized by this incredible community is deeply meaningful.”

“James Mangold and Cynthia Erivo embody the very essence of creativity and impact within the arts,” said Amanda Kelso, Acting CEO of Sundance Institute. “James’ career reflects the heart of filmmaking: bold and authentic storytelling. His connection to the Sundance Institute, from his early days as a participant in our artist programs to his groundbreaking work as a director, has left a lasting impact on the film community. Cynthia’s journey, marked by electrifying performances in every project she touches, has made her a dynamic artist who inspires and empowers audiences and creators alike. We are thrilled to honor James with the Trailblazer Award and Cynthia with the Visionary Award, celebrating their extraordinary achievements and the powerful stories they continue to bring to life.”

The gala, presented by Google TV, will help raise funds for the Institute’s year-round artist support programs. To purchase tickets, and more information, visit the Sundance website. The 2025 Sundance Film Festival runs January 23-February 2, with in-person screenings in Park City and Salt Lake City, and select online offerings available nationally January 30-February 2.