Interview: Michael Xavier, Ready For SUNSET BOULEVARD With Glenn Close!

Congratulations on the role - how are rehearsals going? And can you tell us what's Glenn Close like?

Thank you. Rehearsals have been such a wonderful creative process and Glenn has been so accepting, accommodating, gracious and fun! I'm having a great time!

You're probably aware that on theatre forums you're often on fans' casting wish lists for productions - is this a role you wanted or expected to play?

Well, I'm not aware of that but I am now. How lovely to hear! This is such an iconic musical theatre role to play and yes, it's always been one I've had my eye on. I'm glad to be able to get my teeth into Joe - metaphorically.

How difficult is it to prepare for a limited run like this in terms of getting into the character?

It's not difficult at all. The length of the rehearsal process dictates how easy or hard it is but we've had a good four weeks to rehearse and play around with it. It's a shame we're only playing for 43 shows!

Without giving too much away, what can we expect from the show?

An incredible orchestra (ENO) led by the wonderful Mike Reed playing Andrew Lloyd Webber's greatest score, an exciting new and enormous set, brilliant fresh direction from Lonny Price, a superb cast and, of course, some unknown actor who goes by the name of Glenn Close as Norma Desmond. Her performance alone is worth the ticket price!

And where can we expect to see you next?

At the moment I have no plans lined up as I'm focusing entirely on this production. Who knows what this year will bring!? It's a very exciting time for me.

Michael Xavier plays Joe Gillis in the ENO's production of Sunset Boulevard, which begins its limited run on Friday April 1.