Composer

:

Andrew Lloyd Webber

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1993

Average_duration

:

91:40

Movement_count

:

32

Movement ....

Sunset Boulevard is a musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton. The musical is based on the 1950 film of the same name directed by Billy Wilder. The musical premiered in London's West End in 1993 and on Broadway in 1994. The plot of Sunset Boulevard revolves around the faded silent film star Norma Desmond, who lives in a mansion on Sunset Boulevard with her butler Max. Joe Gillis, a struggling screenwriter, stumbles upon Norma's mansion while trying to evade his creditors. Norma hires Joe to help her write a screenplay for her comeback film, but their relationship becomes increasingly complicated as Norma becomes more delusional and possessive. The musical is divided into two acts and features several memorable songs, including "With One Look," "As If We Never Said Goodbye," and "The Perfect Year." The music is heavily influenced by film noir and features a lush, orchestral score. Sunset Boulevard premiered in London's West End in 1993, starring Patti LuPone as Norma Desmond and Kevin Anderson as Joe Gillis. The production was directed by Trevor Nunn and received critical acclaim, winning several Olivier Awards. The musical opened on Broadway in 1994, starring Glenn Close as Norma Desmond and Alan Campbell as Joe Gillis. The Broadway production was also a critical and commercial success, winning several Tony Awards. The musical has been revived several times, including a 2017 production in London's West End starring Glenn Close and a 2019 production in New York City starring Betty Buckley. The musical has also been adapted for television and has been performed in several countries around the world. Sunset Boulevard is known for its lush, cinematic score and its exploration of the dark side of Hollywood. The musical is a tribute to the golden age of Hollywood and the power of the film industry, but it also exposes the loneliness and desperation of those who are left behind. The character of Norma Desmond has become an iconic figure in musical theatre, representing the tragic fate of those who are unable to let go of their past glory.

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