Following the success of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Don Black, and Christopher Hampton’s musical Sunset Boulevard, adapted from Billy Wilder’s 1950 film by the same name, Jamie Lloyd returned with a revival of the theatrical version in October 2024. Starring The Pussycat Dolls’ Nicole Scherzinger as the lead, Lloyd turned the actress’ Broadway debut into a major hit.
Using minimal style and set design, Jamie Lloyd brought back the iconic fashion, replicating the 50s era in Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Boulevard. But despite the excitement and ambition surrounding the Broadway show, let’s get straight to the fact that there’s no Hollywood ending. So while buckling up for some heartbreak and star-studded performance, let’s dive into the show and learn what to expect from it.
Lead Actresses Who Previously Appeared in Sunset Boulevard Shows
After music composer Andrew Lloyd Webber starred Patti LuPone as the lead actress in his London musical Sunset Boulevard in 1993, the theater show simply propelled to new heights almost toppling the popularity of Gloria Swanson’s 1950 noir/comedy. Thereafter, LuPone’s show earned critical acclaim before the actress got into a massive fight with Webber, only to get fired.
This dramatic feud between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Patti LuPone led the music composer to replace her with Glenn Close. Thereafter, the three-time Tony winner then appeared in the 1994 musical, when it moved from London’s West End to Broadway—for the Los Angeles production. Unlike LuPone—who lost her opportunity after a fallout with Webber, Close earned her chances and kept reprising her role as Norma Desmond, the lead in Sunset Boulevard Broadway shows.
Following the premiere of the Broadway show in 1994 at the Minskoff Theatre, which won seven Tony awards, including Best Musical that year, Glenn Close returned to Broadway in 2017, for another long run and extensive tour of Sunset Boulevard. However, in 2024, Nicole Scherzinger took on the responsibility of appearing as the immortal Norma Desmond in Jamie Lloyd’s highly acclaimed West End revival of Sunset Boulevard.
What is Jamie Lloyd’s Revival of Sunset Boulevard About?
Based on the original 1950 movie that revolved around the ill-fated pairing of Norma Desmond, a faded film star frantically chasing a comeback, and Joe Gillis, a down-on-his-luck screenwriter who becomes her collaborator, Sunset Boulevard Broadway shows and theater productions have all been about the same story.
Therefore, exploring the themes of Hollywood’s ruthlessness, the fragility of fame, and the pitfalls of aging, Nicole Scherzinger’s 2024 show under Jamie Lloyd’s direction focused on the ambitions and frustrations of its characters, by putting their intoxicating need for fame and adoration under the spotlight.
Despite the deadly serious story of how Norma and Joe’s dangerous yet captivating relationship leads to disaster, Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Boulevard with Jamie Lloyd’s no-scenery aesthetic, spiked the production with humor and cynicism that made big impressions on audiences.
What to Expect from Nicole Scherzinger’s Broadway Show?
Following the footsteps of the 1993 musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Don Black, and Christopher Hampton, Jamie Lloyd turned his bold and wildly entertaining revival of Sunset Boulevard, into next-level noir. Pulling audiences into a theatrical universe all its own, the 2024 Broadway show stunned people with big moments and dance numbers packed with young Hollywood wannabes.
Therefore, in Nicole Scherzinger’s Broadway debut in Sunset Boulevard, one can expect a unique theatrical experience that blends drama and humor. With the production embracing a minimalist aesthetic that focuses on character and emotion rather than elaborate scenery, Jamie Lloyd’s direction features striking moments that highlight the contrast between illusion and reality.
But it was certainly the opening number of Act 2, Sunset Boulevard, where things became particularly cheeky, showcasing a mix of backstage antics and visual gags, emphasizing the Broadway show’s satirical edge. Overall, one can expect a captivating blend of intense drama, memorable music, and sharp wit.
Creative Team Behind Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Boulevard
The creative team for Sunset Boulevard, under the direction of Jamie Lloyd, brought together a diverse group of talented individuals. First, there’s Soutra Gilmour, responsible for set and costume design—crafting visually striking environments that reflect the film noir aesthetic of the story while also enhancing the emotional landscape of the characters.
Then comes choreographer Fabian Aloise, who infused the production with dynamic movement with an aim to narrate the story through expressive dance, capturing the essence of the characters’ inner lives. Further, there’s Alan Williams as the music supervisor and musical director, responsible for musical orchestration and arrangement, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic score to life.
The lighting design is handled by Jack Knowles, whereas the sound design has been managed by Adam Fisher. As for video design and cinematography, Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom oversaw the visuals that reflect the themes of illusion and reality. Casting for the production happened to be a collaborative effort, with Jim Carnahan CSA and Jason Thinger CSA serving as the U.S. casting directors, and Stuart Burt CDG managing the U.K. casting.
Finally, 101 Productions, Ltd. served as the General Manager for Sunset Boulevard. Together, this creative team successfully revitalized the classic musical for contemporary audiences in 2024.
The Cast of Sunset Boulevard (2024)
Much like the iconic creative team who helped make Jamie Lloyd’s dream come true of remaking Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 1993 original musical Sunset Boulevard, the remarkable ensemble helped transform the dream into real visuals. Beginning with Nicole Scherzinger in the iconic role of Norma Desmond, who brought her powerful stage presence and vocal talent to the character.
With her Broadway debut, Nicole Scherzinger proved that she could do more than just perform in her R&B-pop group and dance ensemble The Pussycat Dolls. Meanwhile, joining her are her acclaimed co-stars from the London production, including Tom Francis, who portrays Joe Gillis, the struggling screenwriter caught in Norma’s world. Francis’ performance showcased both the charm and vulnerability of Joe as he navigated his complicated relationship with Norma.
Further, there’s Grace Hodgett-Young, who took on the role of Betty Schaefer, a young and ambitious script reader, followed by Olivier Award winner David Thaxton as Max Von Mayerling, Norma’s loyal butler. Together, this talented cast delivered a captivating interpretation of the classic tale, creating a memorable theatrical experience.
Audiences’ Remarks About Jamie Lloyd’s Sunset Boulevard
So far, Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Boulevard achieved an audience approval rating of 91% on the review aggregator Show-Score. With audiences and critics offering positive remarks on the performance and aesthetic elements, the 2024 Broadway show got overall praise for sets and costumes on social media.
If the reviews felt enough to gain your attention, then check out the release date and location for the 2024 Broadway show Sunset Boulevard.
Release Date and Location of Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Boulevard
Initially announced in January, Jamie Lloyd’s highly acclaimed West End revival of Sunset Boulevard starring Nicole Scherzinger has made its way to Broadway. Opened on Broadway on Sunday, October 20, with preview performances dating back to Saturday, September 28, the show caused an uproar among fans.
So if you’re planning to check it out, visit the St. James Theatre to have first-hand experience of the show. Tickets to see Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard are on sale as of October 2024.
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