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
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