Simply put, Christine Sherrill puts on one of the best all around performances I’ve seen in some time. Playing “Norma Desmond” in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard”, Sherrill clearly shows why she is a top stage talent with her brilliant use of dramatics, comedic timing and, maybe most of all, her commanding range of vocal finesse. Sung with power and Flair, Sherrill is beyond perfection in numbers “Salome”, “As if We Never Said Goodbye” and “Phone Call”. If for nothing else, “Sunset Boulevard” is worth seeing on Sherrill’s performance alone, but a well-rounded cast and blazing orchestra make this a show that runs on all cylinders.
Taking place in the 1940’s, this film noir-to-stage classic is the story of how Joe, a young writer waiting for his break, meets up with Norma Desmond, an ultra rich silent film star who has been out of the scene for some time, but has delusions of making a strong comeback. As Joe (who initially stopped by because of car trouble) helps Norma rewrite her script, the two become close and in many ways dependent on each other. Norma is controlling and Joe desperately needs work and though the two are worlds apart emotionally and physically a strange romantic relationship occurs between the two to benefit each other’s needs.
With a slew of songs, mystery romance and even murder, “Sunset Boulevard” is a fully functional musical that evokes emotions of anger, sadness and pity, as the characters are well-defined and the story nothing less than tragic.
Will Ray is fantastic as “Joe”, both acting and singing his way into the hearts of audience members, while Don Richard deserves kudos for handling his role as “Max”, Norma’s loyal, pride and true butler.
Sunset Boulevard is playing at Drury Lane in Oakbrook through March 24th. For tickets and/or more information, visit www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.
