October is a time for the Spooktacular-savvy. And what better way to revel in the spirit of one of the most beloved aspects of the fall than with a gripping Tony Award-winning Stephen Sondheim musical? (Eight Tony’s, to be exact!) Brought to life by CenterStage!
Travel back to 19th century London, when a barber, the infamous Sweeney Todd, and the baker who worships him, Mrs. Lovett, make quite the remarkable duo. Pie might be best served hot and a la mode, but we all know revenge is best served chillingly cold. Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett savor vengeance by baking murdered victims into meat pies.
Kentucky's own Johnny Depp starred in the film adaptation!
For those who seek murder and mayhem in movies this time of year, what better way to be immersed in sinister entertainment than through a live musical? And for the more faint of heart, CenterStage artistic director John Leffert explains, “There will be no blood on the stage.” Mr. Leffert describes Sweeney Todd as “a dark comedy and satirical social commentary. While the show is for an adult audience, it won’t be gory.” CenterStage is a master at portraying mature themes through an appropriate comical lens, with powerfully interpretative song and dance.
“The CenterStage version will combine the revival version with a nod to the original play,” Leffert said. “The set, designed by Karl Anderson, will have an industrial, asylum-like feel,” he added.
Austin Lauer will bring gravitas to the role of the demon barber Sweeney Todd, who CenterStage fans will recognize as the impressive Melchior from Spring Awakening. Joining Lauer, as Sweeney Todd’s unhinged baking partner-in-crime, Mrs. Lovett will be Jennifer Poliskie (who also starred in Avenue Q as Merry Christmas).
“On a personal level, this is one of my bucket-list shows,” Leffert said. “I’m really excited to be directing this show. It’s brilliantly written, and is a director’s and designer’s dream to bring to life on the stage.”
CenterStage and J. Michael Spa and Salon present Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street at the Jewish Community Center, opening this Thursday night, October 23rd through Sunday, November 9th.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $22 at the door.
To purchase tickets, call (502) 238-2709 or clicking here.
Visit CenterStageJCC.org for more information about becoming a season subscriber. It is one of the best parts about living in Louisville!
Photos Courtesy of: CenterStage's facebook page
