In the title role, Don Crerar attends to a customer.
Artistic Director, Chris Rands; Musical Director, Paul Jeanes; Producer, Justine Fry.
Sweeney Todd was classified by Sondheim himself as "black operetta". Chris Rands noted: "It is rare indeed to find a work where there is such a brilliant marriage between words and music, but this is what was achieved by Steven Sondheim… brilliantly driven by his stunning orchestration, acute sense for drama and colured by the very sound of the words he uses … this is one of the great works of the 20th century".
For the first time the company performed to an 11-piece orchestra, rather than to two pianists – and what a difference it made. The singers patently relished being supported by a larger fuller sound, which gave an added dimension to the production.
A real ensemble approach — the chorus clearly enjoyed their powerful narrative role, and communicated that enjoyment.
Imaginatively and intelligently directed by Christopher Rands, an object lesson in making mass murder eminently watchable.
Atmospherically lit and well costumed… a huge achievement.
Reviews: Newbury Weekly News
