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
