Nicole Scherzinger Proves She’s More Than a Pussycat Doll in ‘Sunset Blvd.’
Nicole Scherzinger has been the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, a judge of The X Factor and a contestant (and winner!) on Dancing with the Stars. Currently, she’s taken on another role: Broadway actor, and it’s going quite well.
Nicole Scherzinger: From Pop Star to Broadway Star
Scherzinger takes on the iconic role of Norma Desmond in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, Sunset Blvd. The character, having been portrayed many times before, requires a fresh yet faithful approach, something Scherzinger was able to deliver. Her performance stays true to previous interpretations of the character, while bringing something new. That’s no mean feat: the role has previously been played by Patti LuPone and Glenn Close.
A Perfect Fit for Nora Desmond
Scherzinger is the perfect fit for Jamie Lloyd’s reimagining of the well-loved musical, considering she’s been getting standing ovations for her haunting and mesmerizing performances. In a report by People, Scherzinger received a six-minute standing ovation for her performance last Sunday, October 20 when the show opened.
Fans and theater patrons were shocked to see a different side to Scherzinger. They, of course, knew how powerful her vocals were, but to see her commanding the stage as a performer with serious range was a pleasant surprise.
Glenn Close’s Blessing
Not that she needs it, but Glenn Close, who portrayed Nora Desmond before and won a Tony Award for her performance in 1995, sent a handwritten note to Scherzinger, as reported by Variety. Scherzinger admitted she’s a fan of both Close and LuPone, but she hasn’t spoken to either. According to her, “If this show is going to be real and authentic, it can only come from me.”
A Career Reinvented
Nicole Scherzinger’s Broadway stint feels like the next chapter in a career that’s always been progressing and willing to try on new roles. She’s come a long way from her days as a pop icon and her performance as Norma reinforced her decision to step into musical theater. For those who put her in a box, think again. As she continues to dazzle audiences, it’s clear Scherzinger isn’t just stepping away from her Pussycat Doll persona, she’s completely leaving it behind.
