Sunset Boulevard
Information
- Date
- 24th June 2015
- Society
- Durham Musical Theatre Company
- Venue
- Gala Theatre, Durham
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Fred Wharton
- Musical Director
- Steven Hood
- Choreographer
- Kathleen Knox
Durham Musical Theatre Company was one of only 30 societies chosen nationally by the Really Useful Group to stage Sir Lloyd Webber’s musical, which is based on the 1950s film of the same name by Billy Wilder, and they did so in a spectacular fashion.
This dark story charts the relationship between Joe Gillis (Graeme Walton), an out-of-work screenwriter looking to make himself some easy money, and a forgotten star of silent film, Norma Desmond (Eileen Glenton), who sees him as a way to rejuvenate not only her career, but also her love life. The character of Joe links the plot together and in the end becomes the victim as he is drawn into Norma’s web and ultimately his demise. This role was in the capable hands of Graeme Walton who was in fine voice as this reluctant toy boy struggling to break free from Norma’s grip.
As Joe’s friend and subsequent lover, Betty Schaefer, Katy Walton sang and acted with energy and poise. The duet “Too Much In Love to Care” between Betty and Joe was beautiful.
Max Von Mayerling, Norma’s manservant who protects her from intrusion and reality, was superbly played by Anthony Smith. Despite spending most of his time in the background or shadows, his portrayal of Max’s love for Norma was moving and believable. From his smallest movement to the heart-breaking rendition of “The Greatest Star of All” his character oozed love and devotion to Norma - an outstanding performance.
From her first dramatic entrance to the final scene when Norma loses her grip on reality, Eileen Glenton captured every nuance of the “the greatest star of all” with a superbly controlled performance. “With One Look” was a triumph with her magnanimous stance and histrionic gestures, and the audience couldn’t fail to be captivated by her every move and word. Similarly “As If We Never Said Goodbye” in the studio with the entire cast, was captivating. Eileen gave an incredible performance which I’m sure will be talked about for years to come.
The supporting characters were consistently engaging and perfectly complemented the strong leads. The company singing was of a high standard, and the accomplished dancers added another professional dimension to the production.
The orchestra were superb, so good that they became as one with the performers. The set was very good, the many scene changes were seamless complemented by good use of film, and everyone was immaculately dressed, from the lavish costumes of Norma to the “back lot” staff.
Congratulations to the cast, crew and production team on a polished, first class production.
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