★ ★ ★

Reviewer - Becky

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

The story of Sweeney Todd first appeared on the stage in 1847, in a melodrama at the Britannia Theatre, Hoxton, in the east end of London and was based on a popular “penny dreadful” serialised story. Opera della Luna’s new production restores the musical element of story-telling with an orchestra of ten musicians, and music penned by British opera composers of the Victorian age.

Wilton’s Music Hall now brings this infamous story back to life before our very eyes with a live orchestra (orchestral arrangement by James Widden) playing music that would have been important during the time period in which Sweeney Todd takes place. Music by composers such as the likes of Michael William Balfe, Julius Benedict and Henry Bishop. The music takes themes from each of these composers and integrates them beautifully throughout the production, very much like a film score. This was all wonderfully conducted by Toby Purser.

This is not a musical, this is a new and effective way of storytelling on the stage, the way it would likely have been done during the 19th century. Wilton’s Music Hall reflects this effect with its rustic-themed theatre hall and old feel, this was the perfect setting for a show such as this.

With a small cast playing a multitude of characters, the dialogue takes on not just the serious tones of the story but adds some comedic relief also. Nick Dwyer leads as the convincing villain barber of Fleet Street. His dark and deep operatic tone gave a well-needed chill to his character. Lynsey Docherty stars as Mrs Lovett and brings again a dark portrayal of the pie maker to the stage with a hint of humour. Other members of the cast include Paul Featherstone, Matt Kelley, Caroline Kennedy and Madeline Robinson. The latter Robinson shone through what little we heard of her soprano singing voice which was absolutely hypnotic.

There was a clever use of projections to reflect the more intense scenes, such as chases and the many deaths that occur at the hand of Sweeney Todd. Lighting also played a massive part in this with a variety of dark red and blue hues to reflect the mood of the scene as well as the mood of the music. There was also a sublet in adding audience interaction spotted throughout, with lots of boos and hisses, almost pantomime like.

The set as said previously was old and rustic, props were used appropriately and were transitioned well within darker scenes, moved by members of the cast.

Costuming was interesting and a little comedic in some places. There were some very questionable wigs used in some places which could sometimes take you out of the performance. However, you could argue this lightened the tone and added a more humorous tone to something that’s usually perceived as a scary tale.

This was definitely an interesting take on a classic tale of murder and secrets, it was nice to have a little comedy thrown in there as well to lighten the spirit of the show.