There were a few set pieces (like a staircase) and quite a few props. The orchestra was on stage during the entire performance, as were most of the cast members. All cast members wore body mics, so they could move around freely. Various images were projected onto a screen behind the orchestra, like a pool, the Paramount gates, Norma's mansion etc.
Norma Desmond was played by Judi Connelli. Her voice is powerful and extremely rich, and she has a very good stage presence. Her performance actually changed a bit during the week, from more comedic to a bit more serious. I preferred her last performances to her first ones. Joe Gillis was played by David Campbell, whom I knew virtually nothing of before I went to see the show. His Joe was very good, down-to-earth, and a more realistic Joe than others I have seen in the role. Oh, and a great singer too! Max von Mayerling was played by Roger Howell, who did a wonderful job. But in my opinion the star of the show was in fact Chelsea Plumley who played Betty Schaeffer. She turned what is basically a thankless role to play into a three-dimensional character that evolved throughout the show. In fact, there were little touches added to the relationship between Joe and Betty that made it more believable than in the original production.
Especially nice touches to this production were the humorous car chase scene (wonderfully choreographed - done with around 12 actors each with their own miniature car!) and the final scene where pages from Norma's Salome script blows onto the stage during a storm. 'The Lady's Paying' and 'Eternal Youth Is Worth A Little Suffering' were staged almost as in the original.
The rather short rehearsal period was visible from time to time, as a few cues were missed, and some lines were flubbed. But it was nothing big, only something that fans would notice.
After the final performance, I was invited to the cast party along with a couple of fellow Sunset Boulevard fans. Thanks to the wonderful Jeanne Pratt, chairman of the Production Company for inviting us! We met all the leads, and they were just wonderful. David Campbell was a laidback, cool guy. Chelsea Plumley was just the cutest and most charming person ever. Roger Howell was wonderful and really funny. Judi Connelli was incredibly sweet, but understandably a bit tired after the performance. I had my picture taken with the stars, and they also autographed my programme. We also spoke with some of the other cast members, and they were all great people. One of them had even noticed us sitting in the front row for more than one performance!
All in all, this was a wonderful experience. Oh, and a special thanks to Max and Tim for making my visit to Melbourne even better and sharing the experience with me.
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