Fil-Am star Nicole Scherzinger stuns in ‘Sunset Boulevard,’ gets standing ovation

Nicole Scherzinger / Photo by Elton Lugay

NEW YORK CITY — Broadway celebrated a grand night with the opening of the revival of “Sunset Blvd.,” featuring Nicole Scherzinger, who proudly represented her Filipino heritage.

She received multiple mid-show standing ovations — including one that lasted six minutes – from the star-studded audience on opening night.

The event on Sunday was attended by luminaries such as Andrew Lloyd Webber and Anna Wintour, marking a significant moment during Filipino American History Month.

Anna Wintour / Photo by Rasmin Diaz

Scherzinger, transitioning from a successful West End run, expressed her heartfelt excitement about debuting on Broadway.

“It does feel like a homecoming; it feels like a return,” she told Inquirer.net USA. “It just feels really special…This is a childhood dream to be on Broadway.”

A sharp critique of the film industry, “Sunset Boulevard” centers on the delusional aging film queen, Norma Desmond (played by Nicole), who lives in a ramshackle mansion with her butler and former husband while planning a doomed comeback.

Andrew Lloyd Webber / Photo by Rasmin Diaz

The revival now running at Broadway’s St. James Theatre is described as a reimagined version.

So what exactly is a reimagined version?

David Thaxton, one of the principal cast members, explained, “Every night, something organic emerges that kicks off new emotions you didn’t know were possible. I was such a fan of the original, but this new version allows us to take everything we thought we knew and build something totally different and fresh.”

Why did the director risk taking this new direction?

British director Jamie Lloyd shared, “My approach is an imaginative response to the material. It comes from me personally and from all the collaborators. We create a space where everyone is free to explore and try new things. We take the work seriously, but not ourselves too seriously.”

Director Jamie Lloyd and Nicole Scherzinger / Photo by Elton Lugay

The cast and creative team praised Scherzinger’s talent and generosity. 

Cheryl Thomas, hair and makeup designer, said, “She is an absolute delight. It’s rare to work with someone who is not only clear about their vision but also genuinely kind and considerate. Nicole brings out the best in everyone.”

Associate Director Benita de Wit noted, “There’s so much that really resonates for Nicole in this role. The production was built around her unique talents, and she embodies the character with incredible depth.”

Video designers Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom were impressed by Scherzinger’s on-camera prowess. Amzi remarked, “She’s ridiculous. She’s so talented. Every movement is precise, and she delivers a powerful performance both on stage and on camera.”

Choreographer Fabian Aloise described working with Scherzinger as a privilege, saying, “Nicole is like clay that can do whatever you ask. Her adaptability and creativity make every rehearsal a joy.”

Filipina cast member Kristina Garvina Doucette expressed, “This has honestly been surreal. It’s magical to see Filipino women take on such iconic roles and showcase the depth of human experience.”

Kristina Garvida Doucette / Photo by Elton Lugay

Diego Andres Rodriguez emphasized representation: “I am 100 percent a believer in representation. Seeing Nicole on stage is inspiring for so many, showing that people from diverse backgrounds can achieve greatness.”

Diego Andres Rodriguez and his mom / Photo by Elton Lugay

Other notable attendees included singer-actress JoJo, who exclaimed, “I cried, I screamed. Seeing Nicole perform with such passion and skill is incredible. She truly deserves a Tony.”

Actor and friend Skylar Astin of Pitch Perfect fame added, “She’s incredible. Her talent knows no bounds, and watching her on Broadway is an unforgettable experience.”

Glee’s Matthew Morrison expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m thrilled to see Nicole having this moment. Her talent shines, and she’s bringing something new and exciting to the stage.”

Matthew Morrison / Photo by Rasmin Diaz

Canadian composer and music executive David Foster, known for nurturing Filipino talent, remarked, “If Nicole wasn’t incredible tonight, I’d be shocked. Her performance was nothing short of spectacular.”

David Foster and Katharine McPhee / Photo by Rasmin Diaz

Rogue ballerina and “Here Lies Love” Fil-Am producer Georgina Pazcoguin was ecstatic: “I’m freaking over the moon. It’s about time we see more Filipina talent taking center stage and breaking barriers.”

Georgina Pazcoguin / Photo by Elton Lugay

Principal cast member Grace Hodgett Young described Scherzinger as “the most inspirational person I’ve ever come across. Her dedication and talent are unmatched, and she never fails to give me shivers with her voice.”

Grace Hodgett Young / Photo by Elton Lugay

The night marked a celebration of talent, representation and cultural pride, with Scherzinger at the heart of it all.

Watch “Sunset Blvd.” now running at St. James Theatre on Broadway and be prepared to be blown away by the vocal prowess of this Fil-Am superstar.