Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musicals are back on stage, captivating audiences around the world with their timeless stories and unforgettable music. With ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ set to debut in India and ‘Sunset Blvd’ showcasing Nicole Scherzinger’s stellar performance on Broadway, the appeal of Webber’s theatre masterpieces continues to resonate.
‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ based on Gaston Leroux’s Gothic horror novel, tells the story of a disfigured musical genius living beneath the Paris Opera House. The musical, which first graced London’s West End stage in 1986, is making its much-anticipated debut at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) from March 5 to March 30. Leading up to its opening, the cast, including Grace Roberts as Christine and Jonathan Roxmouth as the Phantom, shared their thoughts on what makes this beloved production so enduring.
Roberts expressed her excitement about portraying Christine, saying she was “over the moon” when she got the role. She described the character's appeal as rooted in “the glorious score, the character’s tenacity, and her iconic costumes.” With the show’s unique demands—such as maintaining stamina during its long duration—Roberts diligently prepared herself during the rehearsal period. “It now all feels like second nature,” she asserted, calling Christine “incredibly courageous.”
On the other hand, Roxmouth, who has been performing as the Phantom for several years, follows a strict pre-show ritual to prepare mentally and vocally. He shared, “I have tea to soothe my throat and steam. Then I have a specific vocal warm-up and try to connect with a few people before the show begins.” The Phantom, he believes, embodies the consequences of abandonment and jealousy, which adds emotional depth to the character. “Jealousy is proof of love because it is outward and deliberate,” Roxmouth explained, reflecting on the duality of the Phantom’s character.
Associate director Rainer Fried noted the production’s historical significance, commenting, “The Phantom of the Opera is often referred to as a classic of musical theatre. It is a phenomenon!” He emphasized the musical's ability to transcend cultural changes, anticipating its impact on Indian audiences during this inaugural run. With both Robert and Roxmouth embodying complex characters, the production aims to capture the hearts of its new audience.
Meanwhile, far across the ocean, Nicole Scherzinger has been wowing Broadway audiences with her rendition of Norma Desmond in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Sunset Blvd.’ Based on the classic Billy Wilder film, this revival, directed by Jamie Lloyd, showcases Scherzinger’s unparalleled talents, marking her as one of the standout performers of the season.
Scherzinger’s portrayal of Desmond—a faded silent film star yearning for love and relevance—is being lauded as her finest performance to date. Her rendition captures the emotional turmoil and fragility of her character, offering audiences layers of performance rarely seen on stage. A review highlighted the brilliance of her signature song, “With One Look,” stating, “The audience goes wild for ‘With One Look,’ to the point where applause clouds the final notes.”
Scherzinger’s transition from pop star to Broadway actress exemplifies her versatility, as she carries the weight of the character’s history and dreams. “It’s a beautiful moment you feel grateful to witness,” conveyed one spectator, underscoring the synergy between Webber's material and Scherzinger’s artistry.
These two productions reflect the resilience and relevance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s work, showcasing his ability to craft narratives filled with passion and intrigue. Both ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ and ‘Sunset Blvd’ highlight powerful stories told through memorable characters, enhanced by music and rich performances. Theatergoers can expect not just entertainment but also emotional journeys through the talented leads and their compelling stories.
For Broadway enthusiasts and musical lovers alike, the current season showcases the continued evolution of Webber’s works and the new interpretations brought by rising stars like Scherzinger and seasoned actors like Roxmouth. Whether hoping for spine-tingling romance within the Paris opera or exploring the dreams of Hollywood history, theater lovers have incredible experiences awaiting them.
This revitalization of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s seminal works is not just bringing nostalgia but also inviting new generations to experience the transformative power of theatre. With performance dates approaching, excitement grows, promising unforgettable memories for audiences of all ages.