Inside Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Blvd. Broadway Opening

If Broadway has a buzziest star of the moment, it’s definitely Nicole Scherzinger. Last night, the singer marked the official opening of her new musical, Sunset Blvd., in New York City—where Scherzinger is taking on the iconic role of Norma Desmond, in Jamie Lloyd’s new interpretation of the classic 1950s film. “Jamie is an absolute visionary, and he always opens our eyes to experiencing art in a new and exciting way,” Scherzinger tells Vogue. “I truly believe that this interpretation is unique and original, and something people haven’t seen before. Expect the unexpected.”

Already garnering rave reviews for her modern portrayal of Desmond, Scherzinger portrays a washed-up silent film star who’s ready for her closeup (a role that’s also been portrayed by Glenn Close and Gloria Swanson). While Scherzinger seems a natural fit for the Broadway stage (she has, after all, performed solo and with the Pussycat Dolls for years) the star admits that she was, at first, apprehensive about taking on such a famous role. “When Jamie first came to me with the opportunity to play Norma, I didn’t see it,” says Scherzinger. “I didn’t know the musical—I only knew the film.” But after delving into the story, and watching both the film and 1990s musical adaption by Andrew Lloyd Weber, Scherzinger had a change of heart about being cast in the new revamp. “[Jamie] encouraged me to read the script closely and listen to the movie, and I was captivated,” she says. “I empathized with [Norma] and I understood her. I fell madly in love with her.”

The one who started it all … thank you Andrew Lloyd Webber. I want nothing more than to make you proud.

Photo: Alexandra Arnold

Of course, preparing for such a big Broadway role was no small feat. While she debuted in the show on London’s West End, Scherzinger spent many months rehearsing and nailing down the new feel of the character. “I prepare like an Olympian. I’m very focused and have been working really hard, as has the whole cast,” says Scherzinger. “I’ve been extremely disciplined, watching and protecting my voice.” Last night, as the show debuted at the St. James Theatre in Manhattan, Scherzinger kicked things off by engaging in a few of her signature pre-show rituals, like lighting a candle and listening to calm, meditative music. “Before the show, I’m usually in my dressing room doing vocal and physical warm ups and focusing on breath,” she says. “I try and protect that sense of calm before a show.” As for something specific she does to get into the character of Norma? “I don’t like to talk about my process of getting into character, as that’s between me and Norma,” says Scherzinger.

On stage, Scherzinger has a few favorite moments in the show. She always looks forward to performing “With One Look” and “As If We Never Said Goodbye” for the audiences. “The end of the show is also incredibly special to me,” she says. “It’s when I fully reveal my heart to the audience.” Equally as delightful? The sleek fashions she wears throughout the production, brought to life by set and costume designer Soutra Gilmour. While Norma Desmond evokes all things Old Hollywood glitz, Scherzinger says the looks for this new production are surprisingly stripped-back—and deliberately so. “The costumes are very minimal,” says Scherzinger. “When I’m onstage, I’m super bare in a simple black slip; You have to be fully exposed to tell the truth.”