If you like minimalist modern theater and can’t stand Victorian theater - but are still a little dark and twisted – you would have loved the traveling production of the Sweeny Todd revival that came to the Palace Theater December 11-16th.
The original production of Sweeny Todd was a gothic music feast of costumes, elaborate stage sets, and gruesome effects. The revival production is unique in that it requires the actors to also be the orchestra. While this is novel and requires great talent, with a story line as complex as Sweeny Todd, the lack of interaction between the characters makes the plot difficult to follow at times. Also, most characters address the audience directly – with little or no interaction with each other, breaking the fourth wall. However, all interaction between the brilliantly played Mrs. Lovett and Sweeny is behind the fourth wall. This also affected the effectiveness of the story telling.
The gorgeous, sinister songs of the genius Sondheim are well sung and played in this production. Judy Kaye is almost as good as the magnificent original Mrs. Lovett Angela Lansbury. Kaye provides the humor and heart of this production. Anthony Gemignani is a solid Sweeny Todd, more Bruce Willis than Johnny Depp. Lauren Molina has a fantastic voice and great comedic timing as Johanna. Of course the highlight of any production of Sweeny Todd is the warped “A Little Priest” and this cast provided an excellent example. The surprise is newcomer Edmund Bagnell as the timid Tobias. This young buck straight out of school is amazingly talented and will be seen soon in leading roles on Broadway.
If you liked this production but missed the gore and gorgeous costumes, then
go see the movie version. If you like the gothic vibe but can do without explicit
scenes then this is the production for you. Regardless, any music lover will
enjoy the brilliance of Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics and composition.
Review by Linsey Griffith
Photos by David Heasley