**Stars Shine Bright at Broadway Revival of 'Sunset Boulevard' Featuring Nicole Scherzinger**

On a balmy Sunday night, the St. James Theater buzzed with excitement as it hosted the opening of a new revival of the classic musical "Sunset Boulevard." The event attracted an array of celebrities eager to witness a fresh take on the beloved production.

The spotlight was on Nicole Scherzinger, the 46-year-old former Pussycat Doll, who took on the iconic role of Norma Desmond. The narrative follows Desmond, a faded silent-film star grappling with the harsh realities of an industry that swiftly discards its female stars. Scherzinger’s youthful yet impactful portrayal was described as "stunningly youthful" by The New York Times chief theater critic Jesse Green, challenging the preconceived notion that the role should be reserved for older actresses.

Directed by Jamie Lloyd and choreographed by Fabian Aloise, this minimalist revival brought a daring new vision to the stage. Tom Francis, playing the role of young screenwriter Joe Gillis, earned a standing ovation for a poignant performance of the title number, enhanced by a live feed that followed him onto the street.

The gala-like premiere saw the attendance of notable personalities including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez, fashion editor Anna Wintour, and "Live With Kelly and Mark" hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos. Industry titan Clive Davis and renowned theater producers Jordan Roth and Richie Jackson also graced the event.

Betty Buckley, who previously played Norma Desmond in the 1990s, expressed her excitement, stating, "I'm thrilled to see this." Other guests, such as actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson, conveyed initial skepticism turned into excitement after seeing production photos. Laverne Cox and Brooke Shields, now the president of Actors' Equity Association, were also spotted navigating the theater's crowded aisles.

The performance itself was met with tremendous acclaim. Scherzinger received multiple mid-show standing ovations, particularly one during a gripping sequence in Act 2. The final act concluded at 9:45 p.m., with Scherzinger emerging covered in fake blood—a striking visual that has spurred much online discussion.

Post-show, the celebration continued at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, where cast members and attendees mingled over a variety of gourmet treats. Jeremy O. Harris, the Tony-nominated playwright of "Slave Play," praised Scherzinger's performance, calling her voice "otherworldly" and hailed Lloyd's direction as one of the year's most exciting.

As the night wore on, partygoers danced under a "Sunset Blvd." screen, epitomizing the blend of classic and contemporary that this revival so boldly represented.