REVIEW: Welsh National Opera: Sweeney Todd at Liverpool Empire Theatre

On Friday 13th November, Liverpool Empire Theatre welcomed the Welsh National Opera and showcased the first of two dates of the classic Sweeney Todd - The demon barber of Fleet Street. Originally produced on Broadway, this thrilling production by director James Brining with music by Stephen Sondheim unfolded before the audience's eyes.

Sweeney Todd returns after 15 years of false imprisonment and meets pie shop owner Mrs Lovett who proceeds to help him open a barber shop above her shop. When Todd learns that his daughter, Johanna, is in the custody of Judge Turpin who abused his wife before she allegedly poisoned herself, he becomes consumed with rage and seeks revenge. Pirelli, who was previously employed by Todd attempts to blackmail him. Filled with dread and panic, Todd kills him. This is the point of no return for Todd and the killing spree begins.

Desperate to be reunited with his daughter Johanna, Todd the plots revenge on Judge Turpin.  When an opportunity arises, but is foiled, Todd decides to take revenge on society, and goes on a killing spree - slaying scores of his customers. Gruesomely, Todd's victims are used as fillings for Mrs Lovett's pies. What ensues is an even more extensive bloodbath, revelations of real identities and scenes of mayhem which remain permanently etched on the minds of the audience.

Set in the late 70's, early 80's the set paints perfectly a picture of poverty, desolation and struggle. The set was cleverly designed and was utterly convincing. The cast were equally convincing as they performed with passion from the get-go. Prepare to be engaged from the minute the first number is performed.

Sweeney Todd played by  David Arnsperger & Mrs Lovett played by  Janis Kelly

Sweeney Todd played by  David Arnsperger & Mrs Lovett played by  Janis Kelly

David Arnsperger's performance as Sweeney Todd was nothing short of perfection. His vocal ability and stage presence was faultless. He was utterly convincing as the demon barber. As well as feeling fearful of him, you feel empathy for him as he searches for his daughter Johanna. Janis Kelly who plays Mrs Lovett makes her debut with WNO delivers a stunning performance throughout. She is funny and endearing and has a voice of an angel.

Full cast

The whole cast are technically strong and the performances are powerful and spine-tingling. Despite being an opera which lasts three hours, the time passed so quickly. Expect to be mesmerized by the show from beginning to end.

Janis Kelly adored by her pie eating clientele

Steven Page as Judge Turpin

Jamie Muscato as Anthony Hope

Jamie Muscato plays Johanna's love interest and his performance is faultless. His duets with Soraya Mafi (Johanna) are emotionally charged and result in many goose bump moments. Soraya's voice was beautiful and her range impeccable.

The musical score was fantastic and the orchestra are to be commended. James Holmes conducted.

Kudos to Soraya Mafi who played Johanna Barker, Stephen Page - Judge Turpin, George Ure - Tobias Ragg, Aled Hall - Beadle Bamford, Charlotte Page - beggar woman and Paul Charles Clarke - Pirelli. The entire cast were superb.

This opera is worthy of five glittering gold stars. It is a must-see. It is spine-tinglingly good. I experienced an array of emotions from terror, to sadness, to feelings of hilarity. It is evocative and a worthwhile way to spend an evening. The talent of the Welsh National Opera (WNO) is astounding. This is the epitome of a musical thriller.

Running Time: 3 hours with interval

Age guidance: 12 years + (parental discretion required)

The show rums at Liverpool Empire until Saturday November 14th only. Evening performance 7:15pm tickets available here

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