Sunset with Close to the Palace in January — Page 3

"Would such a set be as massively expensive in 2016 as it was in 1994?"

Napier's original set would be at least 50% MORE expensive today than 20 years ago. Improvements in technology would show negligible savings compared to the huge increased materials costs and huge raises in wages paid to the carpenters, sculptors, scenic artists, metal workers, shop owners and transpo costs needed to recreate those sets today and install them at the Palace.

Adam - I would think both roles require a gifted singer. I know Elena did receive a lot of negative talk on these boards - (although when I saw her, I thought she did a fantastic job). I think part of the problem in that situation was that she was being touted as a phenomenal singer (and she's from Argentina!! which was supposed to make her even more fantastic)

Close, the expectations for her singing weren't that great to begin with, so when she actually did a solid job in 1994-95, people were blown away by her singing and even more, her acting. Particularly since the reviewers were savage on LuPone's acting.

Whether any of this is fair or not - is a whole other matter, just thought I'd give you my take on it.

I saw Glenn twice in 94/95 - and it was an amazing experience. But when I went back to see Betty Buckley, it was an entirely different (and to me even more phenomenal) performance hearing her hit and annihilate some of those high notes

I'm also sad we're getting a return of Ms. Close. LOVE her as an actress but agree that I'd rather see a new and exciting rendition by one of the amazing divas we love. I'd love to see Stephanie J Block do this.

MadonnaMusical said: "Also... and I say this out of respect... does anyone give a crap about Glenn Close anymore? When was the last time she had a hit movie? I don't think her name will translate to ticket sales."

I think it will still be a big draw. It was in London. Most theatregoers will look at it as like a last chance to see Carol Channing in Hello Dolly or something like that.



For me, I'm disappointed nothing ever came of the donna murphy workshop of doing a revival of Sunset that they had done a few years back. Had high hopes of that and can imagine her singing that score

MadonnaMusical said: "Also... and I say this out of respect... does anyone give a crap about Glenn Close anymore? When was the last time she had a hit movie? I don't think her name will translate to ticket sales.



"

Exactly. She failed to sell out London for five weeks so will she manage for 20? She will have LOTS of competition - not only Bette but also Sally Firld in Glass Menagerie. I know that this isn't the 90s anymore and neither of the three are as big a star as they once were (which I suppose does add a meta element to Close as Norma) they'll also have to compete with Cate Blanchett doing Chekov. Although classical highbrow theatre like what Field and Blanchett will be doing is different to Sunset, their marquee names will nevertheless have sizeable audience crossover. And as Blanchett is the most 'current' star, and Bette doing a similar concept with legendary actress in prestige (but critically more mainstream) musical, I have a feeling SB will not be a huge hit.

dwirth said: "Sure, Close can't sing, but she can act and create a character very, very well. I get her allure (though, for me, Paige couldn't be topped in this role the first time around). My biggest gripe is that she is 20 years too old for the part of Norma.



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Dwirth, couldn't agree more...

Close acts this role extremely well and Paige is the best I have seen.

Im not dissing Close because I'm a huge fan of her as an actress. But.. In a concer setting, I'd rather hear someone who can let loose on that gorgeous score.

I saw it with Betty and her extraordinary voice infused such a strong tone and bone chilling emotion to the proceedings. With Close I always feel like she is struggling which always makes me feel uncomfortable.



Is this a limited run? I love the show but it seems it would not be first choice among tourists unless it starred Lady Gaga.

I saw this in london and it is not concert style. In fact id say its just as much staged as some shows that come out of places like the menier. For a limited run the set and staging was impressive, as were the costumes. Really a mesmerising evening in the theatre. The only downside for me was michael xavier as joe who was way too comical and jazz hands, showed what a weak actor he is.

My concern is glenn got ill in spring in london, not sure doing it in the middle of new york winter is the best idea.

Updated On: 8/8/16 at 04:35 PM

nycncbrguy said: "Princeton2 said: "I saw this in london and it is not concert style.The only downside for me was michael xavier as joe who was way too comical and jazz hands, showed what a weak actor he is."

Maybe Andrew Lloyd Webber will get Ramin Karimloo to reprise the Joe Gillis role for the Broadway run??! Ramin has his own International Fanbase, a Phenomenal Voice and Amazing onstage Chemistry with his Leading Ladies. I'm certain Ms. Close would be no exception.



Ramin played in Sunset as Joe before? Never knew that

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"Ramin played in Sunset as Joe before? Never knew that "

https://youtu.be/gspBRV-WtBw

Here is a clip of Ramin Karimloo singing "Sunset Boulevard" at a Concert. Not from the show. But it kind of gives you an idea of the Magic in the Making...

I'd love Jenn Damiano as Betty

Any word yet on when this might become official?