Tom Francis, Grace Hodgett Young set final performances in 'Sunset Boulevard'
Francis and Hodgett Young have starred alongside Nicole Scherzinger since director Jamie Lloyd's Tony Award-winning production opened in London in October 2023.
Tony Award nominee Tom Francis and Grace Hodgett Young will play their final performances in Jamie Lloyd's production of Sunset Boulevard on July 6 and 13, respectively. The pair have starred in the roles of Joe Gillis and Betty Schaefer alongside Tony Award winner Nicole Scherzinger since the award-winning production opened in London in October 2023, and Francis won an Olivier Award for his performance.
Pierre Marais, who currently plays the role of Sammy and understudies Joe Gillis, will take over from July 8 through the end of the production’s extended run at the St. James Theatre on July 20. Sydney Jones, who currently plays Dorothy and understudies the roles of Betty and Young Norma, will step in for Hodgett Young.
Lloyd said in a statement about Francis, “It has been an honor to see Tom transform into a true Broadway leading man. He and Nicole have led this Broadway company with humor, compassion, and love. I’m thrilled to see what is next for his remarkable career and I’m honored to have played a small part in introducing him to New York audiences. As we say ‘Happy Trails’ to Tom, I’m delighted that Pierre will be playing the role for our final weeks at the St. James.”
On Hodgett Young, he said, “Grace was just out of drama school when we cast her as ‘Betty,’ but her talent and star quality proved to me she is already one of the greatest young stage actors working today. Her smile, quick wit, and love for everyone at Sunset Blvd. will be missed.”
Francis said in a statement, “It has been a literal dream come true to make my Broadway debut in Jamie’s production of Sunset Boulevard. Two years ago, when the idea of being in the show was first discussed, I was just excited to be considered and never expected the wild ride I’ve been on. I’m gutted I’m not able to be there for our final performance on July 20, but I send big love to Nicole, Grace, Jordan, and the entire company. And to my dear friend Pierre, I leave the St. James Theatre, 44th Street, and Shubert Alley in your extremely talented hands.”
Young said in a statement, “It’s been an absolute thrill to have made both my Broadway and West End debuts in Sunset Blvd. When I first walked into the audition room over two years ago, I had no idea how my life would change. My eternal gratitude to Jamie Lloyd and the entire Sunset Blvd. team for taking a chance on the new kid.”
Jamie Lloyd’s reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic musical, which is based on the film directed by Billy Wilder, follows fading movie star Norma Desmond who clings to a struggling screenwriter — with disastrous consequences.
The three-time Tony Award-winning production's creative team includes Soutra Gilmour (set and costume design), Fabian Aloise (choreography), Alan Williams (music supervisor and music director), Jack Knowles (lighting design), Adam Fisher (sound design), Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom (video design and cinematography), Cheryl Thomas (hair and makeup design), and Ann James (intimacy coordinator).
Photo credit: Tom Francis in Sunset Boulevard with Nicole Scherzinger. (Courtesy of production)
Frequently asked questions
What is Sunset Boulevard about?
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical Sunset Boulevard soars back to Broadway this year in an acclaimed new production, which has received seven Tony Award nominations and stars Olivier Award nominee Nicole Scherzinger, who gives an unforgettable turn as fading star Norma Desmond in director Jamie Lloyd’s revival.
Where is Sunset Boulevard playing?
Sunset Boulevard is playing at St. James Theatre. The theatre is located at 246 West 44th Street (between Broadway and 8th Avenue), New York, 10036.
How long is Sunset Boulevard?
The running time of Sunset Boulevard is 2hr 35min.
How do you book tickets for Sunset Boulevard?
Book tickets for Sunset Boulevard on New York Theatre Guide.
What's the age requirement for Sunset Boulevard?
The recommended age for Sunset Boulevard is Ages 12+..
Who wrote Sunset Boulevard?
Don Black and Christopher Hampton wrote the book and lyrics for this Broadway classic. Celebrated composer Andrew Lloyd Webber wrote the music.
Who directed Sunset Boulevard?
Sunset Boulevard in New York is directed by Jamie Lloyd, known for his sparse takes on classic works, including 2023's A Doll’s House starring Jessica Chastain.
What are the songs in Sunset Boulevard?
EGOT winner Andrew Lloyd Webber, known for Cats and The Phantom of the Opera, composed the songs for Sunset Boulevard, with Don Black and Christopher Hampton writing the lyrics. Some of the show’s most famous songs are “With One Look,” “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” and “Sunset Boulevard.”
Is Sunset Boulevard appropriate for kids?
The production contains some adult content and themes and as such is recommended for ages 12 and up. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.
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