Sunset Boulevard

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is a musical showcasing the glamour and darkness of 1950s Hollywood. At the centre of the production is ageing movie star Norma Desmond who has been played in professional productions by Glenn Close, Patti LuPone and more recently, Nicole Scherzinger. I made the short trip to Newport’s Dolman Theatre to see Concept Players production of this musical.

As the opening gauze flew out, the stage was filled with large ‘light boxes’ that lit up in a multitude of different colours throughout the performance and were used for the most part in place of traditional scenery, save for a few props here and there. At first, I did feel that the light boxes would have been more at home in a dance show or pop concert however they did grow on me as the performance progressed.

From the opening sequence, Joe Green as Joe Gillis gave an excellent performance. He was vocally excellent and had a good character. This was a performance full of strength. Well done.

Ellie Hoare played ageing move star, Norma Desmond. This is a huge part and Ellie did well. She had good characterisation and dealt with her many, elaborate costume changes well. She had a very expressive face, nicely played.

As the doting butler Max, Stephen Hopkins gave a good performance in his return to Concept Players. He played the role with the gravitas it required and sang well.

Zoe Philpott added energy as Betty Schaefer and she formed a nice partnership with Joe Green throughout the production. She sang well and had a good character.

The ensemble cast worked hard throughout. Their harmonies were great and they all moved well.

As a general note, the singing was good throughout the production but occasionally the cast had to battle with some timing issues from the live band which was a shame.

The costumes throughout the production were appropriate for the piece and I know many of the women in attendance were envious of Norma’s fabulous costumes.

It was lovely to catch up with director, Ruairidh Macleod-Lyon, after the production. He should be commended on taking on a challenge the size of Sunset Boulevard. Ruairidh shares my view that although we are all amateur performers, we should strive to be the best we can be and as always, my comments are designed to encourage and promote the highest standards.

An enjoyable evening, thank you Concept. I wish you luck with your second run of the production at the Paget Rooms.

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