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North Shore Music Theatre's 'Sunset Boulevard' Is an Enthralling Performance

North Shore Music Theatre presents its latest production of Sunset Boulevard.

By Marielle SabbagPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
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Alice Ripley (Norma Desmond), Nicholas Rodriguez (Joe Gillis) and William Michals (Max Von Mayerling) performing a dramatic scene in NSMT's Sunset Boulevard. Photo credits to Paul Lydon Photography.

Lights, camera, action! I am ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille.

North Shore Music Theatre presents its latest production of Sunset Boulevard. Based on the life of the once-top movie star, Norma Desmond is in denial about her declining popularity and existence. Determined to make a return, Norma persuades Joe Gillis to help her write a script to reach the top again before fading.

I was marveled by the enthralling performances, the exquisite and well-crafted set, and a beautiful story that was sold by the bold direction of Kevin. P Hill. Sunset Boulevard bases its story around growing older, the hopping film industry, and learning to accept one's diminishing career and move on to live life to the fullest.

Audiences may recognize Alice Ripley from countless productions on Broadway, most notably, Next to Normal. Ripley’s stunning performance as Norma Desmond was groundbreaking. Her voice was stage-worthy and authentic! Even more incredible was her ability to sell her character in moments of denial as she was trying to make it back to the top.

Not only that but Ripley had the privilege to wear countless long gowns to which she had to quickly change into in under ten seconds for some scenes! Now that takes commitment!

Nicholas Rodriguez was outstanding as Joe Gillis. Reluctantly he agrees to help Norma reach stardom while turning his back at the same time. Rodriguez was magnificent as he was in a battle of wits between the path of right and wrong. And his voice is superb!

I was floored by William Michals enthralling performance as Max Von Mayerling! My jaw dropped the instant he started singing in an operatic voice. Michals easily steals the show revealing dark secrets and only doing what is best to keep Norma in her sanity.

Lizzie Klemperer did a terrific job as Betty Shaefer. Her expressions of anguish emoted incredibly unfolding desires with Joe but the latter reluctantly cannot give her.

An ensemble of talented actors brings forth memorable performances. From singing, partying for the new year, dancing, and one ghostly figure observing the action unfold, the ensemble of Sunset Boulevard made me smile so big. They were all having so much fun. It doesn’t matter how small your part is. Have fun!

The set for Sunset Boulevard is exquisite! The instant I stepped into the theater I was taken aback by the beautiful handcrafted grand staircase representing Norma Desmond’s mansion. Not only that but close to one hundred breathtaking photographs surround the stage of Norma Desmond in the glory days of her film career.

This is one of the most amazing sets I have seen on the stage of NSMT! Well done to all those who crafted the stage into a dark mansion that is stuck in the past. Be on the lookout for a handcrafted 1932 Isotta Fraschini, which drives onto the stage! Very impressive!

Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber dazzles audiences with marvelous music and songs that are belted out by actors. Most notable song numbers include "With One Look," "The Greatest Star of All," "Every Movie’s a Circus," and the show-stopping song, "As We Never Said Goodbye."

Kevin P. Hill does a spectacular job in his bold direction capturing the emotion and the message of the story. Live life to the fullest. Don’t ever feel as though you have outlived your glory. The film industry is a thriving but overwhelming environment to become lost.

Well done to everyone involved in this phenomenal show! I was sitting on the edge of my seat enthralled by the story and such an exquisite set. From now until October 6 I recommend that you catch a showing of Sunset Boulevard at North Shore Music Theatre! You will not be disappointed.

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About the Creator

Marielle Sabbag

Writing has been my passion since I was 11 years old. I love creating stories from fiction, poetry, fanfiction. I enjoy writing movie reviews. I would love to become a creative writing teacher and leave the world inspiring minds.

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