Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Sunset Blvd." opened on Broadway nearly two decades but hasn't made it to Florida until today, when it can be seen at The Players Theatre of Sarasota.

The show based on the classic 1950 film of the same name is about a silent movie star who longs for a return to the silver screen, having been discarded by Hollywood after the advent of "talkies."

Jeanne Larranaga stars as Norma Desmond, along with Logan O'Neill as Joe Gillis, Tim Fitzgerald as Max Vom Mayerling and Betty Shaefer as Sarah Cassidy.

Additional stars include Lilian Moore, Lauren Ward, Tamara Solum, Debbi White, Ren Pearson, Bill Sarazan, Jay Bowman, Randy Garmer and Alex Mahodevan.

The show is being directed by Michael Newton-Brown (who will also design the set). His creative team consists of musical director Joyce Valentine, Choreographer Michelle Teyke and stage manager Leona Collesano.

"Sunset is a incredible musical that I have loved since I saw it on Broadway" said Jeffery Kin, The Players artistic director, in a statement.

"To have the area premiere on The Players stage is a personal season highlight for me. I couldn't be prouder or more impressed with the creative team and talented actors who are working on this Andrew Lloyd Webber masterpiece."

Details: Dec. Jan. 10-27, The Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Tickets: $25; $12 for students. Information: 941-365-2494 or www.theplayers.org.

--Wade Tatangelo