Sunset Boulevard

Occasionally, a window of opportunity opens offering those involved in amateur theatre the experience something exciting and momentous. A superb production was the outcome of this hugely talented society taking advantage of such an opportunity. The Really Useful Group, which manages Andrew Lloyd Webber’s shows, decided to make performance rights available enabling amateur companies for one year only to stage Sunset Boulevard, which opened in the West End in 1993.

Based on Billy Wilder’s Oscar-winning film the musical follows is a ‘Norma Desmond’, reflecting on her stardom of yesteryear on the silent screen recalling old memories from her golden days in the spotlight of fame. A chance encounter then with Joe Gillis a struggling screenwriter prompts her to seize an opportunity through him to return to the big screen.

This is a complex story of passion and power, though outstanding performances from the central characters allowed the audience to immerse itself in this darker side of Hollywood. The magnificent evocative Lloyd Webber score giving that extra spice to the romance and tragedy of the whole melodrama.

In the leading role a ‘Norma’ Sarah Gillhooly was sublime with power, passion and performance of outstanding quality. Vocally strong and impressively her diction meant every syllable was as clear as a bell. “With One Look” was spellbinding.

Richard Hulbert gave a performance of conviction and wonder as Joe Gillis Leading the ensemble in setting the scene at the top of the show was a lesson in storytelling and stagecraft and the number! “Let’s Have Lunch” interacting with the whole company. His  duet with Leanne Stephens whose portrayal of ‘Betty Schaefer’ was brilliantly performed delivering a show stopping piece with “Too Much in Love to Care” 

‘Max von Mayerling’ provided Andrew Bartlet a key principal character to play which he did superbly well as did Rob Cockrell as ‘Cecil B De Mille’ together with Doug Millington- Smith ‘Artie Green’ and Mike Staiger as Sheldrake/Manfred. All these pivotal in injecting the required touch of mystery and intrigue that threaded through the whole musical.

The ability the whole company demonstrated to remain in character made for wonderful theatre. This was pleasingly noticeable for the many cameo scenes taking place throughout and with little straight dialogue provided intensified poignancy.

Innovative lighting and sound effects enhanced the whole production on a set that maximised space on stage and auditorium for every scene. Inspired direction included characters moving props and scenery seamlessly and swiftly. Panels spelling the authentic Hollywood sign with which we are all familiar quickly being reversed to depict the side of a car. A clever touch!

Costumes also presented huge challenges and on stage produced some stunning results in colour and design. All contributing to a production of captivating quality and enjoyment.

Finally I must pay tribute to the music both from the perspective of flawless singing and acting by the full ensemble in many of the more busy scenes. Musical direction and delivery from an impressively accomplished orchestra off stage though doing full justice to the Webber score.

Thanks WODS for another wonderful evening of entertainment and excitingly is encouraging to see members previously with the youth section making their mark in fine style.

 Ian G Cox

Regional Representative - Worcestershire East (District 12)

On behalf of Trevor Guest

NODA - Be Inspired by Amateur Theatre

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