Sweeney Todd, Twickenham Theatre

By Becky Starr

You never have to wait long to attend the tale of 'Sweeney Todd'. Easily Sondheim's most produced work, versions of the piece are regularly popping up - Tooting Arts Club site-specific version and the ENO's Broadway transfer being the next on the horizon. If you throw in the recent acclaimed Chichester/West End and West Yorkshire Playhouse productions, then you've got a brand new Fringe venue in Twickenham that has a lot to prove in choosing the piece as its debut production. However, with all that said, the bold choice has most certainly paid off. The intimate space Twickenham Theatre provides is the perfect setting for both the intensity and subtlety present in this astonishing work of musical theatre.

Rachel Stone's set design appears simple, but its genius is slowly revealed throughout the show utilising every last inch of the space made available to them. The cast tower above the audience, heightening the impact of their impressive vocals and foreboding presence, and under Derek Anderson's direction, audience address is used to great, unsettling, effect. Indeed, David Bedella as the barbaric Todd is powerful and terrifying in Epiphany, picking out people as victims of his vengeance. And Sarah Ingram as Mrs Lovett also uses the audience to great comic effect, highlighting the wit of the text. Ingram's comic timing is impeccable and she brings a great strength to the role - particularly in the final scene.

The entire cast, multi-roling constantly, make light work of the stunning score with vocals that "make you come over all gooseflesh". Under the musical direction of Benjamin Holder, the small but strong four-piece band have the balance just right. The inclusion of downsized orchestral percussion in particular added drama and clarity to the intricate work of the two pianos and the chilling solo violin. Their collective sound perfectly complements the unamplified voices - a remarkable feat for a fringe venue.

Alongside the formidable couple, there are standout performances from the company. Genevieve Kingsford as Johanna gives a promising professional debut as an enchanting Johanna, Shaun Chambers delivers a faultless vocal and a delightful comic turn as Pirelli and the gender-neutral casting of Mikaela Newton as Tobias proves an obvious choice with her charm and impressive range.

There may well be others productions of Sweeney Todd in the near future but you would be missing a trick in letting this one pass you by. The calibre of performances and the collaborative work of the cast and creatives is exemplary. It definitely kicks off the Twickenham Theatre's new season in bloody style.

Sweeney Todd by Stephen Sondheim

Twickenham Theatre, 10th Sept - 4th Oct

For further information and tickets, click HERE

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