‘Sunset Boulevard’ returns to Australian Stages with Sarah Brightman

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is set to return to Australia after more than 30 years, with its first performance at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne on 21 May, followed by a season at the Sydney Opera House beginning 28 August 28.

Featuring international star Sarah Brightman in the role of Norma Desmond, rehearsals are well underway with the company preparing for a dazzling new imagined revival. Brightman, who returns to the theatre after more than three decades, takes on the iconic role that catapulted Glenn Close to Broadway stardom. Alongside her will be Australian actor Tim Draxl, who will play Joe Gillis.

The story, based on the Billy Wilder film, depicts the life of Norma Desmond, a faded silent movie star longing to return to her former glory in the era of “talkies.” The plot unfolds as she meets screenwriter Joe Gillis, leading to a dramatic and tumultuous partnership.

Speaking about the role, Brightman, shared her excitement seeing the musical come together.

“I am thrilled to be here in Melbourne and finally in the rehearsal room for this lavish production of ‘Sunset Boulevard’,” said Brightman.

“It is wonderful to be working with this incredible Australian cast. I am enjoying this part of the journey and am excited to be bringing Norma to life each and every day. It’s amazing to see this incredible score and iconic story all coming together, and we are all very much looking forward to the moment we are on that stage.”

Joining Brightman and Draxl on stage, in the role of Max Von Mayerling will be stage and screen veteran Robert Grubb, with the role of Betty Schaefer played by emerging leading lady Ashleigh Rubenach. Jarrod Draper will play the role of Artie Green, whilst the roles of Cecil B. DeMille and Sheldrake will be played by Paul Hanlon and Troy Sussman. The role of Norma Desmond, at select performances, will be played by Silvie Paladino.

The talented ensemble cast includes Regan Barber, Amy Berrisford, Billy Bourchier, Campbell Braithwaite, Benjamin Colley, Grace Driscoll, Madison Green, Peter Ho, Leah Lim, Mary McCorry, Charlotte Page, Morgan Palmer, Caity Plummer, Taylor Scanlan, Tom Sharah, Lisa Sontag, Riley Sutton and Dean Vince.

Presented by Opera Australia and GWB Entertainment by arrangement with The Really Useful Group, this newly imagined revival will mark the show’s triumphant return to Australia in almost 30 years, where it played to sold-out audiences. ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is directed by Paul Warwick Griffin, with set and costume design by Morgan Large, choreography by Ashley Wallen and musical supervision by Kristen Blodgette.

This new staging of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ promises a grand experience, featuring hits like “With One Look” and “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Tickets for ‘Sunset Boulevard’ are on sale now.

For more information about ‘Sunset Boulevard’, the cast and tickets, visit the official website.

Main Image Photography by Simon Fowler.