Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard

Scarborough Theatre Company

 

Director, Musical Director and Musical staging by Alex Weatherhill

Scarborough Spa Theatre

21st March 2025

From the moment you step into the venue, you're greeted with a warm welcome from the front-of-house staff, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening. Scarborough Theatre Company's production of Sunset Boulevard truly made the most of its beautiful venue, utilizing the space to enhance the atmosphere of the show. The stage was adorned with striking images of Norma Desmond, reinforcing her lingering presence throughout the production. The stepped stage floor added an incredible level of dimension, allowing for dynamic movement and intricate staging.

A standout element of the show was the impressive use of projections and vintage-style lighting, which transported the audience straight into the golden era of 1940s Hollywood. These artistic choices were masterfully put together by Alex Weatherhill, who not only directed but also musically directed and staged the entire production. His ability to weave drama and pace into the show was remarkable, and as if that wasn’t enough, he also conducted the live band, ensuring the musical elements were as seamless as the on-stage action.

Speaking of the band, they were nothing short of phenomenal. The seven-piece ensemble blended so effortlessly that, if not for their visible presence at the back of the stage, one might assume the soundtrack was pre-recorded. Featuring Andrew Davison and Will Oseland on Keys, Kathy Seabrook on Reeds, Anna Wheeler on Violin, David Edwards on Cello, Shelagh Revell on Bass, and Judy Day on Percussion, this small but mighty group brought the late 1940s Hollywood sound to life with style and precision.

The show opened with the creatively chaotic Let’s Have Lunch, a number that required the cast to execute overlapping lines with impeccable timing and clarity. The 21-person cast delivered a dynamic performance, each member bringing their character to life with remarkable energy. With a show as intricate as Sunset Boulevard, where blended lines and harmonies are key, the cast’s musical understanding and delivery were nothing short of impressive. The chorus and featured actors, comprising Alice Ashby, Stacey Bolton, Emily Cole, Phil Danielson, Rachel Hutchinson, Linda Polkowski, Louise Stanway, Grace Hankin, Sophia Dunn, Sammie Barnard, Amy Wilson, Sheryl Buttner, and Kathryn Irwin, played an integral role in setting the pace of the show. Their energy and dedication were evident in every scene, providing seamless transitions and enriching the overall atmosphere of the production.

Among the supporting cast, Tim Tubbs perfectly embodied the prim and proper Manfred, while Dave Baker brought an air of authority to Sheldrake. David Lomond as Artie Green and Chris Curtis as Cecil DeMille had limited stage time, but their performances left a lasting impression. Rebecca Kelly Evans shone as Betty Schaefer, her voice beautifully carrying the role.

Martin Richardson commanded attention as the fiercely loyal Max Von Mayerling, making every entrance impactful. Richardson brought an air of mystery and quiet devotion to Max, perfectly capturing the character’s deep loyalty and hidden sorrow. His presence on stage was both imposing and touching, making the audience feel the weight of Max’s unwavering allegiance to Norma. His performance in The Greatest Star of All was particularly moving, as he conveyed Max’s past and present with incredible emotional depth.

Dale Vaughan as Joe Gillis was simply mesmerizing. His commanding stage presence and vocal prowess led the audience through the story’s twists and turns with effortless charisma. His rendition of Sunset Boulevard was a true highlight, sending shivers down spines with every note. Vaughan’s ability to portray both Joe’s charm and desperation made for a compelling performance, keeping the audience captivated from start to finish. He exuded both vulnerability and confidence, making the character’s journey all the more engaging.

And then there was Norma Desmond, portrayed by the phenomenal Julie-Ann Smith. Taking on such an iconic and complex role is no small feat, yet she delivered an utterly spellbinding performance. From the grandiosity of With One Look to the chilling finale, Smith brought nuance, intensity, and raw emotion to Norma. The final moments of the show were so gripping that you could hear a pin drop in the theatre, a testament to her ability to fully embody the tragic former starlet.

Overall, Scarborough Theatre Company’s Sunset Boulevard was a triumph. With an exceptional cast, a stunning artistic vision, and a top-tier live band, this production transported the audience to the golden age of Hollywood with style and grace. Alex Weatherhill’s direction ensured every moment was packed with drama, and the entire team worked in perfect harmony to bring this classic to life. A truly unforgettable theatrical experience!

 

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