There are those who might say that Sweeney Todd isn’t appropriate for a high school musical.
On the other hand, there are those who might say that Sondheim isn’t appropriate for anyone’s ears.
But these kids probably read worse during their Shakespeare unit, so let’s stop listening to judgey people and instead talk about what the kids are actually doing.
Saskia Bakker, after learning the role of Mrs. Lovett (‘s meat pies, savory and sweet pies) has been doing a lot of thinking about her part in both the play and the world.
“On the surface it’s a story about a serial killer, but it discusses complex ideas like good and evil, revenge, innocence, and love,” said Bakker. “It’s very relevant today in terms of issues of poverty, justice, mental illness, and the corruption of power.”
The demon barber himself, as played by Jackson Smart, has been rising to the technical difficulty of the composition. “Sondheim seems to write every note just to mess you up, but the genius is apparent. Every line, music, and note works with the aura of the show, creating such a dark and cynical atmosphere.”
I have been to a few shows at UMS, and been impressed by the challenges director Tim Broeker throws at these kids and how readily those challenges are met. I haven’t seen this production, but for my money, I like the weird notes, the dark tones, and always have a bloody good time when I see Sweeney Todd.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street will be performed at 7:00 pm April 26 – 29 and at 2:30 pm on Sunday April 30. All performances will be in the Urbana High School Cobb Auditorium, 1002 S. Race Street. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults, and are available at the box office, which opens 30 minutes prior to each performance.
