Photographer Jenny Anderson (who shot our fabulous Classic New York Films and Tony Awards Parties photos) brings BroadwayBox backstage for an exclusive new series capturing Broadway companies getting ready to take the stage. This time, Jenny headed to the historic Palace Theatre, home to the acclaimed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard
, starring Tony winner Glenn Close as faded silent film star Norma Desmond. Scroll on as the company gets ready for a Wednesday matinee performance, and don’t miss this limited production.
Dashing leading man, Michael Xaiver arrives at the Palace Theatre for his two-show day as Joe Gillis in Sunset.
Even though it’s typically saved for Saturdays, Katie Ladner made a special exception and indulged us in her pre-show performance of Toto’s “Africa”.
Work it, Katie!!
But wait, the performance is not complete without Lauralyn McClelland doing her interpretive dance.
Yeah, the whole thing is pretty priceless and hilarious.
Meanwhile, Stephanie Rothenberg puts on her full face before the matinee.
As does the fierce Anissa Felix—serving us major brow and eye shadow. 🙌
Over in their section, the guys enjoy a low-key chill and catch up.
Jim Walton starred as Franklin Shepard in the original Broadway production of Merrily We Roll Along opposite Sunset Boulevard director Lonny Price. Jim also appeared in revivals of The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, Sweeney Todd, She Loves Me, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, and On the Twentieth Century.
Fan fave Preston Truman Boyd prepares to play Betty’s Hollywood beau, Artie Green.
Broadway charmer Graham Rowat gets that bow tie fastened.
Two-time Olivier nominee Michael Xavier makes his Broadway debut in this acclaimed London transfer, and, lucky for us, he’s sticking around next season for Prince of Broadway.
Next, Michael’s dresser, Phillip Rolfe, helps him into his first look.
Michael Xavier and Jim Walton share a moment.
You know you want to “aw”.
Stephanie Martignetti, who plays young, ghost Norma in the show, and Katie Ladner enjoy a pre-show laugh.
Look how fierce West End leading lady Siobhan Dillon looks. Siobhan makes her Broadway debut as the smart and beautiful Betty Shaeffer.
With 13 musicals to his name, Matt Wall received the Gypsy Robe for this production.
Michael Xavier and Preston Truman Boyd compete onstage for the love of Siobhan Dillon’s Betty Schaeffer.
Living for this photo of Lance Roberts in his full Old Hollywood drag.
Before the curtain goes up, the company gathers around.
And go time!
Now, it’s time to visit with Sunset Boulevard's Tony-winning and Oscar-nominated star Glenn Close.
Icon!
Even Tony-winning headliners can use some Red Bull wings before taking the stage.
Look at how cute Sir Pip is down there next to his mama pre-show.
Seriously…with one look. Wow.
The whispered conversations in overcrowded hallways.
Lauralyn McClelland gets in some last minute stretching.
T. Oliver Reid has 11 Broadway shows under his belt and two MAC Awards.
Backstage at the Palace truly is a fun, happy place to be.
Preston chats it up backstage with co-star Siobhan Dillon.
Glenn Close is ready to take the stage for her big entrance.
Riding the elevator to her entrance, Glenn takes a few moments of silence to get into character.
The Tony winner makes her way into the spotlight as the audience cheers.
”You there! Why are you so late?”
Don’t miss Glenn Close and Co. in Sunset Boulevard at the Palace Theatre through June 25.
