Sunset Boulevard at the Sydney Opera House is a breathtaking production that brilliantly captures the allure and tragedy of Hollywood’s golden age. The story follows the faded silent movie star Norma Desmond and her desperate attempt to reclaim fame, entwined with the cynical screenwriter Joe Gillis, who finds himself trapped in her decaying mansion. As their lives spiral out of control, it’s a haunting tale of obsession, manipulation, and the heavy cost of stardom.
Director Paul Warwick Griffin has masterfully brought this classic to life, navigating the emotional highs and lows of the story with great sensitivity and flair. His direction ensures that the tension and pathos of the narrative are palpable from the first note to the last, creating a gripping experience for the audience.
The set and costume design by Morgan Large are nothing short of exquisite, perfectly capturing the opulence of Norma’s dilapidated mansion and the glitz of 1950s Hollywood. The attention to detail in every piece is astounding, bringing a rich visual authenticity that complements the dark narrative. Ashley Wallen’s choreography elevates each ensemble number, keeping the movement dynamic and engaging while paying homage to the golden era of musicals. The presence of a large live orchestra under the musical supervision of Kristen Blodgette adds a layer of grandeur, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
The ensemble cast deserves special mention for their versatility, seamlessly shifting between multiple roles, often within the same scene. Their strong vocal performances and vibrant energy significantly contribute to the atmosphere, enhancing the storytelling in a cohesive and compelling way.
Robert Grubb as Max von Mayerling delivers a performance of sheer brilliance. His portrayal of Norma’s devoted servant and former director is profoundly moving, illustrating that love can indeed conquer all, even amidst the heartbreak and disillusionment of their world. Ashleigh Rubenach shines as Betty Schaefer, bringing a youthful determination and ambition to her role as the hopeful writer trying to make it big in Hollywood, balancing optimism with the industry’s harsh realities.
However, the evening belongs to Sarah Brightman as Norma Desmond and Tim Draxl as Joe Gillis. Despite some criticisms from Melbourne audiences, Brightman’s portrayal of Norma is captivating and haunting. Her operatic voice, though occasionally making lyrics challenging to decipher, adds a haunting quality that underscores Norma’s unhinged state of mind. Brightman crafts a tragic yet commanding character, fully embodying the delusional grandeur of a star long past her prime.
Tim Draxl, as always, is sublime. A genuine triple threat, Draxl’s Joe Gillis is a complex mix of charm, desperation, and cynicism. His performance is a testament to his remarkable talent, and it’s thrilling to see him take on such a pivotal role on one of Australia’s biggest stages. Draxl’s chemistry with Brightman adds depth to their scenes, making their doomed relationship riveting and heartbreaking.
Opera Australia’s Sunset Boulevard is a triumph that brings Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical to vivid life. It’s a must-see for lovers of classic musicals, with its grand set pieces, stunning performances, and an orchestra that transports you straight back to the golden days of Hollywood. This production is a reminder of the power of live theatre to capture the complexities of human emotion and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
Sunset Boulevard runs for 2 hours 30 minutes (including 20 min interval) and plays at The Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, through 1 November 2024. Tickets are available through the Sydney Opera House.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of IP Publicity.
Image credit: Daniel Doud
