Nicole Scherzinger Takes Center Stage in Sunset Boulevard
In the heart of London’s West End, a tale as timeless as Hollywood itself is set to dazzle audiences once again. The iconic musical Sunset Boulevard is making its grand return to the Savoy Theatre, with a fresh and vibrant cast led by none other than Nicole Scherzinger in the role of the legendary Norma Desmond.
Directed by Jamie Lloyd, known for his contemporary and innovative interpretations of classic plays and musicals, this revival marks a new chapter in the storied history of this beloved production.
Nicole Scherzinger is the New Norma Desmond
First in the spotlight is Nicole Scherzinger, stepping into the extravagant world of Norma Desmond, the former silent film star desperate to make her big comeback. Scherzinger, already celebrated for her work as both a singer and an actress, is likely to bring a potent blend of star power and emotional depth to this iconic role.
A Special Guest Appearance
Adding more glamour to the cast, it has been announced that Rachel Tucker will be guest-starring as Norma on the 12th of October 2023 matinee, and all Monday evening performances from the 16th of October 2023. Known for her powerful voice and remarkable stage presence, Tucker is sure to bring a unique flair to the character of Norma Desmond.
A Star-Studded Supporting Cast
Tom Francis, known for his role in & Juliet, joins the cast as Joe Gillis, the down-on-his-luck screenwriter and the show's cynical narrator. Opposite him will be Grace Hodgett Young as Betty Schaefer, the young, aspiring writer, with David Thaxton, a veteran of stage musicals like Les Misérables and The Phantom Of The Opera, stepping into the role of Max Von Mayerling, Norma's loyal butler and protector. The full company, which includes an impressive ensemble, promises to make this production a truly remarkable experience for audiences.
A Stellar Creative Team
Complementing this exceptional cast is a creative team that is a testament to the kind of quality one can expect from a Jamie Lloyd production. Soutra Gilmour, responsible for both set and costume design, is likely to weave a visually striking aesthetic that transports audiences to the golden age of Hollywood. Choreographer Fabian Aloise is set to craft memorable sequences, while Alan Williams as Music Supervisor and Musical Director will be managing the haunting melodies composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
The tech team is equally robust, with Jack Knowles leading Lighting Design, Adam Fisher on Sound Design, and Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom joining forces on Video Design and Cinematography, ensuring that the show will be as much a feast for the eyes and ears as it is for the soul.
Celebrating 30 Years of Sunset Boulevard
This new production of Sunset Boulevard is especially significant as it opens 30 years after the original production, showcasing the timeless appeal of this Andrew Lloyd Webber masterpiece. With a book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton, the musical is based on the Billy Wilder film of the same name, a dark and tragic story of fame, delusion, and lost love.
A Limited Engagement
The revival will run for a strictly limited 16 weeks at the Savoy Theatre, from 21 September 2023 to 6 January 2024, allowing for just a short window to catch this sure-to-be sensational show.
The Producers
The show is produced by The Jamie Lloyd Company, a partnership between the Ambassador Theatre Group and Artistic Director Jamie Lloyd, along with Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals. This powerhouse team, known for their dedication to top-tier theatrical productions, assures that Sunset Boulevard is in expert hands.
Check out this curated list of the Top 10 Andrew Lloyd Webber Musicals to explore more of his legendary works.
Director with Vision
Jamie Lloyd, hot off his new revival of Lucy Prebble’s The Effect at the National Theatre starring Paapa Essiedu and Taylor Russell, is a director known for his distinct vision and ability to breathe new life into classic works, making him the perfect choice to helm this revival of Sunset Boulevard.
Booking Your Experience
Tickets to Sunset Boulevard at the Savoy Theatre in London are expected to be in high demand. Considering the star power of Nicole Scherzinger and the excitement around this new production, audiences are encouraged to book their tickets early to ensure the best seats for what is poised to be one of the most unforgettable theatrical events of the year.
This revival of Sunset Boulevard is more than just a trip down memory lane; it is a fresh and invigorated take on a story that speaks to the dark underbelly of fame and the human cost of living in the past. With a cast as dynamic and talented as this, paired with a visionary creative team, the 2023 production at the Savoy Theatre is set to be a highlight of the London theatre season.
Book your tickets, take your seat, and prepare for the lights to dim as you are transported to the intoxicating and tragic world of Norma Desmond in this exquisite revival of Sunset Boulevard.
