Music diva Sarah Brightman to star in 'Sunset Boulevard' on Shanghai stage

The international music diva Sarah Brightman is set to grace the stage in Shanghai with her performance in the iconic musical "Sunset Boulevard."

Scheduled to begin in March, the production marks Brightman's first-ever musical appearance in China, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year. Shanghai is its second stop following Beijing and the show will be staged at the AIA Grand Theater from April 18 to 26.

"Sunset Boulevard" is a Tony Award-winning musical adapted from the 1950 film of the same name. It tells the dramatic story of silent film star Norma Desmond, who becomes obsessed with making a struggling comeback in the age of talking pictures. The musical premiered in London in 1993 and later won six Tony Awards and received 11 nominations, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.

Brightman, known for her angelic voice and record-breaking career, is the world's best-selling Bel Canto singer. With 35 million album sales worldwide, over 180 gold and platinum certifications in more than 40 countries, and over 1 billion streams globally, the Briton remains one of the most dazzling stars on the world stage.

As the timeless "Christine" in musical theater history, she originated this iconic role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's legendary "The Phantom of the Opera" on both London's West End and New York's Broadway stages. Her career spans over five decades, with numerous albums and global tours. She is also the only artist to have performed at two Olympic Games – in Barcelona in 1992 and Beijing in 2008.

Brightman could hardly contain her excitement at the prospect of performing in China once again. "I am filled with immense anticipation as I prepare to bring Andrew Lloyd Webber's monumental work, 'Sunset Boulevard,' back to China," she told AIA Grand Theater.

"This land has witnessed numerous artistic journeys of mine, from the sacred halls of the Olympics to theaters across the country. Each visit to China has been thrilling. This reunion is not only a gathering with old friends but also an encounter with new ones."

The musical legend's rendition promises to bring new life to this timeless story. Her powerful voice and stage presence is expected to captivate audiences, making this production a pinnacle of collaboration between the marvelous soprano and the classic of musical theater.

Each show will last approximately 150 minutes, including an intermission. This production of "Sunset Boulevard" is set to be a highlight of Shanghai's art season, blending music, drama, and spectacle in a way that only Brightman can deliver.

Musical enthusiasts, grab your tickets now! Don't miss the chance to join this musical feast and enjoy the soul-piercing, world-class vocals of the "Moonlight Goddess" Sarah Brightman.

The early bird tickets started pre-sales on Tuesday and will be available until February 25. Tickets priced above 780 yuan (US$107.25) can enjoy a 12 percent early bird discount. Audiences can purchase tickets through multiple ticketing platforms such as Damai, Maoyan, and Piaoxingqiu, or by scanning the QR code below to buy through the official channel.

Performance info:

Date: April 18/22-25, 7:30pm; April 19/20/26, 2:30pm/7:30pm

Tickets: 80-1,280 yuan (Tickets priced above 780 yuan can enjoy a 12 percent early bird discount)

Venue: AIA Grand Theater 北外滩友邦大剧院

Address: 889 Dongdaming Rd 东大名路889号