ACT of Connecticut continues to dream BIG! Get your tickets to see SUNSET BOULEVARD and prepare to be THRILLED!
Ridgefield, Connecticut, October 27, 2023 – Ridgefield's thriving theater scene came alive last night as ACT of Connecticut kicked off its sixth season with a thrilling performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical, SUNSET BOULEVARD.
ACT’s Grammy-nominated Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine is as brilliant a storyteller as he is a director. Levine goes to extremes to captivate his audience. He does not scale down this sophisticated production but instead, harnesses the power of theatrical special effects to bring the emotionally charged characters to new heights.
Lead actress Pearl Sun (Broadway’s Come From Away and Next to Normal) dazzles as faded star Norma Desmond, who unravels throughout the production as her delusions of grandeur become crippling. Her mesmerizing performance captures the nuance of Desmond's descent from stardom and is made even more powerful by an incredibly talented supporting cast.
George Xavier plays the chivalrous and loyal butler, Max Von Mayerling, a character who adds depth to the narrative with his unwavering dedication to Norma Desmond. Michael Burrell is brilliant as Joe Gillis, a struggling and charismatic screenwriter who begrudgingly takes up residence at Desmond's Sunset Boulevard mansion, setting the stage for an enthralling story of obsession and romance. Helen J. Shen portrays Betty Schaefer, a character with her own aspirations and a heart that gravitates towards Gillis, adding to the twisted tale.
The production is further elevated by an 11-piece live orchestra, which adds an extra layer of depth and grandeur to the performance. The live music, under the supervision and direction of Bryan Perri, underscores the emotional journey of the characters, enhancing the storytelling.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team contributed to the success of the production. Sara Brians' choreography, David Goldstein's scenic design, Kurt Alger's costume and wig design, Charlie Morrison's lighting design, Marisa J. Barnes' sound design, and Angelina Avallone's makeup design all played crucial roles in creating a visually and audibly captivating experience for the audience.
This Tony Award-winning masterpiece has been called Andrew Lloyd Webber’s finest scores weaving together an enthralling story of romance, obsession, and faded glory. Catch it on stage at ACT of Connecticut now through November 19 with a Special Opening Night Performance on Saturday, October 28, 2023 and a 7pm performance on Sunday, November 5th.
Thank you to ACT of Connecticut for giving us new ways to dream! You are forever our star.