SUNSET BLVD.: Intimate Concert at the Tiny Desk

As a director, Jamie Lloyd embraces a minimalist approach to theater, creating a serene space that invites contemplation and connection. His revival of SUNSET BLVD. harmonizes beautifully with the thoughtful intent of the Tiny Desk format — to unveil the pure essence of music. Stripped of excess, the production reveals the poignant emotional landscape of its characters, alongside the grandeur of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music and the lyrical mastery of Don Black and Christopher Hampton. In this story set in a tarnished Hollywood, Nicole Scherzinger and Tom Francis grace the stage in their Tony Award-nominated Broadway debuts, portraying Norma Desmond, a once-radiant star of the silent screen, and Joe Gillis, the struggling screenwriter.

This production presents a captivating duo of Tiny Desk renditions that resonate with familiar arrangements for devoted fans. The eight-member orchestra, under the direction of Alan Williams, envelops the audience in lush instrumentals that inspire relaxation. Scherzinger and Francis’ duet of “The Perfect Year” transforms into a gentle soft rocker infused with soothing R&B vibes. “Sunset Boulevard” takes on a vibrant energy, perfectly complementing Francis’ voice, which shines in a moment of stillness, allowing the music to speak. In both arrangements, Justin Rothberg’s electric guitar adds a warm glow to the experience. To conclude this uplifting performance, Scherzinger’s powerful voice gracefully fills the space with “With One Look,” alongside a stirring rendition of “As If We Never Said Goodbye.”

SET LIST
* “With One Look”
* “The Perfect Year”
* “Sunset Boulevard”
* “As If We Never Said Goodbye”

MUSICIANS
Nicole Scherzinger: vocals
Tom Francis: vocals, guitar
Alan Williams: keys, music director
Justin Rothberg: guitar
Pete Donovan: bass
Joe Nero: drums
Annaliesa Place: violin
Philip Payton: violin
Todd Low: viola
Sarah Hewitt-Roth: cello

TINY DESK TEAM
Producer: Mitra I. Arthur
Director/Editor: Maia Stern
Audio Technical Director: Josh Newell
Host/Series Producer: Bobby Carter
Videographers: Maia Stern, Joshua Bryant, Kara Frame
Audio Engineer: Josephine Nyounai
Production Assistants: Dora Levite, Ashley Pointer
Photographer: Alanté Serene
Tiny Desk Series Editor: Lars Gotrich
Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed
Series Creators: Bob Boilen, Stephen Thompson
VP, Visuals and Music: Keith Jenkins