Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

A stunning production of’ Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ from Easy Street Theatre Company set in the atmospheric Sheffield Cathedral.   On the back of their success with Phantom of the Opera in 2023 the company once again used the gothic arches, the stone walls along with the beautiful stained-glass window central in the apse to enhance their incredible performances.  The Cathedral space was well-used with a professional lighting rig having been added along with a stage in the front of the alter and raised seating towards the back of the nave. 

Sound and Light was very well-done, particularly for a performance space that isn’t normally a performance space.  The lighting in particular enhanced the production and caught the atmosphere of the relevant scenes, especially the murders.  Costumes were appropriate for the production, as was make-up.  Props and set pieces were beautifully created and really enhanced the performance.  However, what was most superb was how the young performers used the props and costumes so well in some very difficult scenes, particularly the disposal of the bodies.  As the writer watched the opening night there will have been very limited rehearsal opportunities in this space with all the properties and set in place.  The skill shown emphasises the training which the young people undergo with ESTC putting them in an excellent position should they move on to further theatrical training or continue in the world of amateur theatre.

Director and Producer Sallianne Foster-Major and the Production Team had put together a strong cast of characters who all embraced the challenging roles.   Anthony Hope was played by Kai Haste-Wain who captured the mixed emotions as he falls in love with Johanna and the challenges this presents him.  Milly Wainwright was excellent in the role of the Beggar Woman with her repeated entrances being well timed and narrative and songs very well delivered.   Danil Boudjada was quite disconcerting as the untrustworthy Beadle Bamford – a great portrayal keeping in character throughout.  Isaac Reid was very convincing as Judge Turpin and had excellent annunciation – another strong character portrayal.

The role of Johanna was taken on Wednesday by Oli Davey who was most enthralling as Anthony’s love interest and long-lost daughter of Sweeney Todd.  There was much sincerity to Moses French’s Tobias Ragg, particularly in ‘Not While I’m Alone’ and great conviction in his desire for the ultimate revenge.  French played this part really well using what appears to be the role’s initial limited significance to build up to the dramatic end – a fabulous portrayal.  Gracie Woods really captured the comic nature of Mrs Lovett and made the most of her strong comic timing.  Woods had superb physicality and ensure that “By The Sea” was a real highlight.

And of Mr Todd himself, what is there to say?  A harrowing, dark and hungry performance by Rory Newton who was brooding and frightening in the title role.  His confident and poised presentation of this demonic character was excellent, particularly the chaotic descent into madness.   A very strong performance from this talented young man who headed a strong cast.

The ensemble and supporting roles were excellent throughout and immersed the audience in the street life and darker side of London by walking and silently acting within the whole auditorium space throughout the production.  An excellent concept which worked well whilst not detracting from the main action.    The scene in Bedlam was most disturbing - in the best possible way.  Congratulations to all of the ensemble who also narrated the story through song and strong singing.

The twenty-three piece orchestra was well conducted by Gareth Lloyd as MD and sounded wonderful.  The experienced musicians presented this challenging score beautifully and gave the young people a fabulous opportunity to perform with a live orchestra.

There will have no doubt been challenges in presenting such a difficult piece in a non-traditional venue, but the hard work and creative vision of the team at Easy Street has definitely paid off and created a very memorable and impactive performance.  Congratulations to the performers, Production Team and everyone who helped and supported front of house and backstage – what a fabulous achievement.

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