Members of Longwood Amateur Operatic Society will be bringing a touch of the silver screen to a Huddersfield theatre when their latest production of Sunset Boulevard hits the stage.
The cast will be stepping back to Hollywood’s 1940s movie era to perform the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical at the Lawrence Batley Theatre from October 4-8.
Based on Billy Wilder’s legendary 1950 film, the musical focuses on the faded silent-screen goddess Norma Desmond, played by Samantha Griffiths, who lives alone in a fantasy world at her Sunset Boulevard mansion.
Impoverished screenwriter, Joe Gillis – played by Matt Ogden – is on the run from debt collectors and stumbles into her reclusive domain. Persuaded to work on Norma’s ‘masterpiece’, a film script she believes will put her back in front of the cameras, he is seduced by the actress and her luxurious lifestyle.
Joe becomes entrapped in a claustrophobic existence until his love for another woman, Betty Schaefer played by Gemma Armitage, leads him to try and break free with dramatic consequences.
Director Martin Stead said the Tony award-winning show with music by Lloyd Webber, and book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton, promises to be a spectacular experience for audiences.
“We’re delighted to be bringing this sensational musical to Huddersfield and really hope audiences will enjoy what we have in store,” he said.
“The show is a blend of satirical comedy and dark tragedy, with absolutely fantastic music including the classic numbers ‘With One Look’ and ‘As If We Never Said Goodbye.’
“The cast has been rehearsing so hard and we really hope audiences will show their support for what promises to be an amazing production, with a few tears and plenty of laughter.”
Gareth Dickinson also stars as Max Von Mayerling, alongside Ben Maffin as Artie Green and Richard Cook as Cecile B DeMille.
Longwood’s latest production comes following the success of their 2021 show at the LBT, Into The Woods.
Tickets for Sunset Boulevard, which runs from October 4-8, are available from the theatre by visiting thelbt.org or on 01484 430528.
