BWW Review: SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET at Orpheum Theater

Young love, jealousy, revenge, and the worst pies in London set the stage for Opera Omaha's latest production, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Sweeney Todd first opened on Broadway in 1979 and features a score written by the incomparable Stephen Sondheim, with a book by Hugh Wheeler. Since first making a splash on Broadway it has spawned numerous revivals, won multiple awards including a Tony Award for Best Musical, and even had a bloody good time on the big screen in a movie musical adaptation starring Johnny Depp as the man behind the razor. At times referred to as Sondheim's opera, the score effortlessly bridges the gap between standard classical Broadway musical and opera material, and it's easy to understand why it would be sought out by opera companies around the world.

Director Susan Clement assembled a wonderful cast who weave on and off stage with ease and purpose, always keeping the story flowing. Her direction is clean and intentional, which allows both group numbers and intimate moments to feel grounded and thrilling to watch. There are no throwaway moments or movements. The lights, comprised of mostly warm red contrasting with bright blue, are striking against the costumes and help create an atmosphere of almost good vs evil. The infamous barber chair is flown in and out with the usage of wire, hooks, and the assistance of 2 costumed crew members. And featuring a minimal set of just a few large moving pieces and a couple smaller pieces flown in when required, the production rests heavily on the performances given, and this cast is up to the challenge. With the exception of a few line flubs here or there, this cast of talented artists brilliantly bring to life the tragic tale of Sweeney Todd.