Stephen Sondheim’s SWEENEY TODD is my favorite theater musical.  I love the music, the story, the Steampunk atmosphere.  I have seen a fully staged version, a John Doyle version, and a wonderful concert version with the New York Philharmonic.  This was my first intimate version, not what one expects from this property.

The Barrow Street Theater has been entirely transformed into a re-creation of the Harrington’s Pie and Mash Shop – the oldest operating meat pie shop in London where this production was first staged.  There is practically no stage, just a counter and steep staircase.  Most of this production occurs in the audience which is both thrilling and terrifying.  While the blood is limited the death is very nearby.

I highly recommend this production which plays through early 2018 (and will hopefully be extended again).  All performers were exceptional – especially considering that only eight actors perform the entire piece.  There is only piano, violin and clarinet and yet I thrilled to this orchestra as much as I did to the Philharmonic.  Do not miss this production.  It is amazing.

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TOMORROW: Cincinnati Reds Season