The 2024 production builds on the original's opulent style, merging the cinematic texture, dark aesthetics, and cutting-edge stage technology.
"As an artist and a performer, this has been an incredible role to tackle," says Brightman. "It's beautiful because so much research went into understanding the Hollywood actresses of that time. How they transitioned from the silent era into the talkie era — it's surprisingly relevant to our times. Technology changes so quickly, and many people are left behind.
"Norma has spent years unable to perform, unable to do what she is so gifted at. It's full of pathos, emotion and deeply upsetting experiences for her," Brightman continues. "I'm playing a woman who has had an international career and who has faced the challenges that a solo female artist must navigate in this world."
The male lead, Australian actor and singer Tim Draxl, as Gillis, is drawing significant attention. The character is a down-and-out screenwriter who has fallen on financial and professional hardship. Struggling to find meaningful work in Hollywood, he becomes entangled with Desmond, the fading silent film star desperate for a comeback in the world of talkies.
Gillis becomes Desmond's screenwriter, and she offers him financial support in exchange for his work on her screenplay. Over time, their relationship grows more complex and ultimately destructive. Despite recognizing Desmond's instability, Gillis finds himself unable to escape the allure of her wealth and the promise of a luxurious lifestyle. Their entanglement leads to tragedy as Gillis becomes trapped in a cycle of manipulation, betrayal and loss.
"I think what our show brings to the stage is the essence of Hollywood in the 40s and 50s, at its peak during the golden era," says Draxl.
Speaking about his first visit to China, Draxl says: "I've been wanting to come to China for a very long time, so to start this tour in Beijing is a dream come true. The first day I arrived, I walked through the hutongs and around the Forbidden City. What really struck me was China's pride in its history and the preservation of its culture. It's beautiful."
Australian singer and actor Michael Cormick, who plays Max von Mayerling, Desmond's loyal butler, has sparked interest for his portrayal of the "time-traveling butler".Twenty years ago, he played the young Gillis in the same production, and now, with a calm and steady performance, he brings dramatic tension to the role reversal.
"That's one of the gifts of getting older," Cormick laughs. "Playing Joe and his relationship with Norma was wonderful, but playing Max is like being on the other side of the chessboard. It offers a completely different understanding of Norma and their relationship."
