Broadway meets a living legend—Sarah Brightman is making her China musical debut in Sunset Boulevard, bringing her iconic vocals to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting score. A dark Hollywood epic, the show tells the tragic story of faded silent film star Norma Desmond and her desperate attempt at a comeback. Lavish sets, soaring melodies, and Brightman’s unmistakable voice make this a must-see for musical lovers.
Originally adapted from the 1950 film noir classic, Sunset Boulevard has been a global hit since its 1993 debut, winning six Tony Awards. Now, for the first time, Chinese audiences get to witness Brightman take center stage in this theatrical masterpiece—an unmissable event for fans of Broadway, film, and timeless storytelling.
A Dark Hollywood Epic Behind the Glamour
Sunset Boulevard tells the haunting story of Norma Desmond, a once-great silent film star struggling to reclaim her place in the spotlight after the rise of talkies. When she crosses paths with struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis, their fateful connection ignites a passionate yet twisted relationship, leading to a tragic and unforgettable conclusion.
Adapted from the 1950 Paramount noir classic directed by Billy Wilder, the musical premiered globally at London’s Adelphi Theatre on July 12, 1993. Later that year, a U.S. production starring Glenn Close debuted at the Shubert Theatre in Los Angeles. By November 1994, Sunset Boulevard made its record-breaking Broadway debut at the Minskoff Theatre, earning six Tony Awards and securing 11 nominations, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.
A Theatrical Event Like No Other
This China premiere marks Sarah Brightman’s first-ever musical performance in the country, making it one of the most anticipated theatre events of 2025.
Brightman, an internationally renowned soprano, is the best-selling classical crossover artist of all time. Her celestial voice has captivated audiences in grand theatres, stadiums, historic landmarks, and even Olympic arenas. With over 35 million albums sold worldwide, more than 180 gold and platinum awards across 40 countries, and over a billion streams globally, she remains one of the brightest stars in the music industry.
Best known as the original Christine in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, Brightman’s musical theatre career also includes iconic roles in Cats (1981), The Phantom of the Opera (1986), and Aspects of Love (1990). After transitioning to a solo music career, she created chart-topping albums and embarked on worldwide tours across North America, South America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia. She is also the only artist in history to have performed at two Olympic opening ceremonies—Barcelona 1992 and Beijing 2008.
On returning to musical theatre after many years, Brightman reflects:
"Only a masterpiece like Sunset Boulevard could bring me back to the stage."
"I’m beyond excited to bring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard to China once again," she shares. "This country has been a special place in my artistic journey—from Olympic ceremonies to concert halls, every visit has been unforgettable. This time, it’s both a reunion with old friends and an introduction to new audiences."
Creative Team
- Composer: Andrew Lloyd Webber
- Book & Lyrics: Don Black, Christopher Hampton
- Director: Paul Warwick Griffin
- Set & Costume Design: Morgan Large
- Choreography: Ashley Warren
- Music Director: Kristen Blodgette
*Cast subject to change on performance day.
From Apr 18 until Apr 26 
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