Sweeny Todd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Although sadly I have not had the opportunity to see this for a few years now, Sweeney Todd remains one of my all-time favourite musical productions.

Right from the opening I knew we were going to be watching a somewhat ‘alternative’ version as far as costumes go, with a well-designed steam punk concept lending itself to the more conventional costume plot, I have to say it worked really well.

Dan Guzman convincingly portrayed Sweeney Todd, while Kevin Tofte delivered a compelling performance as Anthony Hope. Luke Hopson captured the hypocrisy of Judge Turpin perfectly, making the audience and fellow cast members cringe, especially Johanna, played by Meg Donovan with such pure innocence. Talented Paul Stait was suitably sinister as The Beadle, and Reece Bushell was an endearing Tobias; the duet with Mrs Lovett, 'Not While I'm Around,' was wonderful. Claire Brough gave a really haunting performance as the Beggar Woman, and Lewis Doley was Adolfo Pirelli. Special mention from me to Rhian Clements who impressed me greatly as Mrs Lovett, delivering what I think was her best performance to date, superb.

The ensemble harmonies in Sondheim's challenging score were well-balanced, another triumph for MD Chris. Well cast and directed by John along with Sadies great energetic choreography and fantastic costumes the whole production was very impressive throughout.

The evening was filled with memorable songs "The Worst Pies in London," "Green Finch and Linnet Bird," "The Ballad of Sweeney Todd," and the haunting "Pretty Women,". Despite its macabre themes, I thoroughly enjoyed the production. Congratulations to everyone involved for an excellent and fast-moving performance.

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