SIDELINED by the advent of talkies, silent-movie star Norma Desmond mistakenly thinks she has a chance to resurrect her long-dead career when she entices out-of-luck screenwriter Joe Gillis into her life.

Sheila Elsdon starred in the iconic leading role, made famous by Gloria Swanson, and dominated every scene with her strong voice and stage-presence, greatly enhanced by the stunning wardrobe sourced by Jackie Wilkins.

Stuart Warner was the perfect foil, as Joe, with an equally-impressive performance.

This company has great strength in depth and Chris Brooke had his own chances to shine, as Norma’s butler/chauffeur Max, later admitting to being Norma’s first husband.

He was bettered, though, by the talented Rhian Roberts who stole the latter scenes as script-editor Betty Schaefer.

Director John-Paul McCrohon’s involvement guarantees a top-quality show and musical director Andrew Woodford’s orchestra made excellent work of the score.

A great-looking, well-lit set, but off-stage conversations were audible.

Alan Johns