Inside Nicole Scherzinger’s Sunset Blvd. Broadway Opening

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.”