Musical theatre fans in Singapore will have the chance to witness a truly momentous event—the Asia Premiere of Sunset Boulevard. This lavish new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning masterpiece is set to take the stage at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, from 7 to 23 February 2025. But what makes this moment truly historic is the return of musical theatre and international superstar Sarah Brightman to the stage after more than three decades.
For many, Brightman is synonymous with The Phantom of the Opera, having originated the role of Christine in both the West End and Broadway. Now, she steps into the iconic role of Norma Desmond, the reclusive silent film star yearning for a comeback. Her casting adds an extra layer of excitement to a production that already promises grandeur, drama, and some of Webber’s most powerful music.
Alongside Brightman, the show boasts a stellar cast, including critically acclaimed actor Tim Draxl as Joe Gillis, Robert Grubb as Max Von Mayerling, Ashleigh Rubenach as Betty Schaefer, Jarrod Draper as Artie Green, and Paul Hanlon as Cecil B. DeMille. With its intricate storytelling, unforgettable score, and dazzling production values, Sunset Boulevard is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated musicals to hit Singapore’s theatre scene.
A Grand Spectacle
From the moment the curtain rose, the sheer opulence of Sunset Boulevard was undeniable. The set design, led by Morgan Large, transported the audience to the golden age of Hollywood, with Norma Desmond’s decaying mansion brought to life in stunning detail. The lighting and staging created an air of mystery and nostalgia, perfectly capturing the contrast between the glamour of Norma’s past and the harsh reality of her present.
The grandeur extended to the costumes, which reflected Norma’s eccentricity and longing for her heyday. Draped in exquisite fabrics, Brightman’s Norma looked every bit the former silent film goddess, her presence on stage commanding attention.
Sarah Brightman’s portrayal of Norma Desmond was undeniably captivating. Her experience in theatre and classical crossover music lent an air of authenticity to the role, making her descent into delusion all the more poignant. While there were moments when her diction was less distinct, she still delivered the musical’s most iconic numbers with her signature ethereal tone. Songs such as With One Look and As If We Never Said Goodbye were imbued with an emotional depth that resonated with the audience, bringing Norma’s heartbreak and longing to life.
Photo © Daniel Boud
It was interesting to see Brightman take on a character so different from Christine Daaé, the role that made her a household name. Where Christine was wide-eyed and innocent, Norma is complex and tragic, and Brightman brought a sense of grandeur to her performance. Her interpretation of the character leaned more towards restrained elegance rather than raw desperation, which made Norma feel more enigmatic rather than pitiable.
While Brightman’s return to the theatre was the main draw, the supporting cast played a crucial role in bringing Sunset Boulevard to life. Tim Draxl, in particular, delivered a compelling performance as Joe Gillis. With a career spanning over two decades in film, television, and stage, Draxl’s experience shone through. His portrayal of Joe was charismatic and layered, perfectly capturing the character’s cynicism and inner conflict. His rich, expressive voice added weight to the musical’s soaring melodies, making his duets with Brightman particularly engaging.
Photo © Daniel Boud
Draxl’s recent accolades, including 2024 AACTA Award nominations for Best Lead Actor in a Drama (In Our Blood) and Best Supporting Actor in a Drama (Erotic Stories), were evident in his performance. He brought a sense of realism and emotional depth to Joe, making him more than just a foil to Norma’s grand illusions.
Robert Grubb’s portrayal of Max Von Mayerling was another highlight. His deep, haunting vocals bore a striking resemblance to the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, making his devotion to Norma all the more eerie. His performance added a layer of mystery to the story, reinforcing the gothic undertones of the musical.
Photo © Daniel Boud
At its core, Sunset Boulevard is a tale of faded glory and unfulfilled ambition. Norma Desmond’s struggle to remain relevant in a world that has moved on is heartbreakingly relatable, and her relationship with Joe Gillis—a young, struggling screenwriter—is fraught with power imbalances, manipulation, and doomed affection.
One of the most striking aspects of this production was how it balanced the grand theatricality of the story with moments of quiet tragedy. While Norma is often portrayed as a delusional recluse, this interpretation allowed glimpses of vulnerability beneath her larger-than-life persona. Though I didn’t always feel the full weight of her loneliness and desperation, the staging and performances still captured the essence of her isolation.
Photo © Daniel Boud
For those familiar with the work of Andrew Lloyd Webber (who happened to be Sarah Brightman’s ex-husband), Sunset Boulevard shares some tonal similarities with The Phantom of the Opera. The sweeping orchestrations, the dramatic love triangle, and even Max’s operatic singing style all felt reminiscent of Webber’s most famous musical. But Sunset Boulevard stands firmly on its own, offering a darker, more psychological take on the price of fame.
Sarah Brightman’s return to musical theatre after more than three decades is an event in itself, and while her portrayal of Norma Desmond may not be the rawest interpretation of the role, it certainly adds an air of regal tragedy to the character. Coupled with a talented supporting cast, stunning visuals, and Webber’s timeless score, Sunset Boulevard offers a grand and emotionally rich experience.
Sunset Boulevard is running at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, from 7 to 23 February 2025. Tickets for Sunset Boulevard can be purchased through Marina Bay Sands, SISTIC and Klook.
