Robert Risko/New YorkerLook, I’m not a theater guy. I know that the theater is wonderful, etc., etc.; it’s just that I’d rather rent a movie. I must be poor, lazy, uncultured, or some combination of the three.
But the one Broadway show I have managed to catch recently is the amazingly reconceived Sweeney Todd. It’s the kind of production you don’t want to miss, even if you’re not a theater guy. And it is a minor crime that it did not win the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival tonight.
If you haven’t heard about this revival, here’s what you need to know: the entire play takes place on one set. No one ever leaves the stage. There is no orchestra; or, rather, the actors are also the orchestra; for, in addition to playing their parts, they play violins, pianos, snare drums, trumpets, and tubas. Many actors play multiple instruments. And sing. And move furniture. And slit throats with razors.
I have no doubt that “The Pajama Game” is a fine, fine show; certainly, it must be a bewitching showcase for Harry Connick Jr.’s gleaming teeth. But it could not have been better than this brilliant, minimalist version of “Sweeney Todd.”
See it if you have a chance.
6 Comments on "Sweeney Todd Wuz Robbed!"
brendan:
great entry, and good to have you back.
Sweeney Todd is one of my personal heroes.
maurinsky:
I love Sweeney Todd, and I want to see the new one, but only when Patti Lupone is on vacation, because I just can’t stand her. That’s probably theater geek heresy, but I just don’t like her voice or her stage presence.
I’ll be singing Mrs. Lovett myself this Friday, in a concert. I’m very excited.
Matt:
It must be hard to find understudies for this cast; Patti LuPone’s replacement would have to be able to play the tuba.
Good luck on Friday, Maurinsky!
Phillybits:
Welcome back again?
Yeah, Sweeney Todd is a great play. I saw it for the first time as a young child, and then just last year, my girlfriend and I saw it again down in Old City, N. 2nd St. I forget the theater’s name down there, the Arden maybe?
Regardless, it’s one of my favorite plays/musicals. Glad you enjoyed it.
Matt:
If you’re a fan of the play, Phillybits, you really should do everything you can to see this particular production of it. Here is a NYT review that explains why in more detail.
Phillybits:
From the Wiki, some more background on the play. Some allege it’s partly based in truth, although verifying it has proven rather difficult.
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