We take a look at what critics are saying about Joe Murphy’s production of stephen Sondheim’s musical, playing in Birmingham until the 15th August.
The Guardian: “an excellent Ramin Karimloo never cracks a smile in the title role, but that only gives the blade-wielding barber a nobility that belies his actions. His chilling surface calm suggests all his efforts are going into suppressing a murderous rage.”
WhatsOnStage: “When Sondheim is done well, the music really sings, and Murphy has excelled in creating a vibrant, new version that puts the music at the fore. Right down to the glorious final rendition of “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd” and the closing shadows of the demon barber and Mrs Lovett, this dazzling production is sure to bring goosebumps of excitement.”
Beyond the Curtain: “Truly, every choice in this show is clearly purposeful and impactful, showing real reflection and passion of the creative team.”
The Stage: “Joe Murphy’s stark production of Stephen Sondheim’s great musical takes advantage of the operatic scale of the Rep’s huge stage.”
Theatre & Tonic: “At its heart, Sweeney Todd asks what happens when grief, injustice and revenge are allowed to consume a person. Its characters are as compelling as they are devastating, brought vividly to life by a cast and creative team at the very top of their game. It has a timeless relevance and a sharp critique of the abuse of power, and this production is wildly entertaining.”
The Reviews Hub: “Sweeney Todd delivers a uniquely electrifying blend of horror, humour and high‑calibre musical storytelling, plunging into a world where tension coils through every scene and the brutality feels both shocking and irresistibly theatrical. It’s a rare production that marries razor‑sharp wit with operatic darkness, offering unforgettable performances, a score that thrums with menace, and a narrative that grips from the first ominous note to the final devastating moment. It’s bold, visceral and utterly compelling, the kind of theatre that leaves you breathless long after the curtain falls.”
The Theatre Flyer: “This production places complete trust in its performers, and that trust is richly rewarded. Without relying on elaborate spectacle, it creates a gripping theatrical experience through outstanding acting, magnificent singing, stunning costume design and expert storytelling. It’s dark, funny, unsettling and utterly absorbing from beginning to end.”
WhatsOnLive.co.uk: “With a talented company and iconic musical numbers, The Rep have created a gripping and gruesome production – the audience were on their feet immediately at the end of the show, after an evening of chills, laughter and bated breath. Book now, while you still can.”
West End Best Friend: “A visually arresting and vocally sublime Sweeney Todd featuring a stellar cast, though we couldn’t help but crave just a little more bite beneath its razor-sharp surface. “
Musical Theatre Review: “For those who like their musicals dark, Sweeney Todd is as razor-sharp as they come, and it’s been far too long since we’ve seen a professional production of this gothic tale. With excellent performances and powerfully chilling production values that honour the material, the Birmingham Rep production shines like the blades of the man himself. A ‘bloody’ good production.”
British Theatre Guide: “There isn’t a weak link in the cast. These aren’t actors who can sing a bit, they’re singers who can act, and the diction and musicality across the board is flawless. Jo Stephenson (Johanna) and Shem Omari James (Anthony) have beautiful, light operatic lyric voices which give their numbers a Gilbert and Sullivan-esque sweetness, and David Bedella’s rich bass-baritone voice lends a warmth to Judge Turpin. Sweeney’s and Turpin’s duet, “Pretty Women”, is gorgeous, and the Johanna, Anthony, Turpin and Beadle (Julius D’Silva) quartet, “Kiss Me”, is exquisite. Silas Wyatt-Barke’s light, Italian tenor is perfect for the showman and con artist, Pirelli, and Jack Gibson gives Mrs Lovett’s none too bright sidekick, Toby, an earnest, lovable vulnerability.”
To book tickets visit: https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/sweeney-todd-the-demon-barber-of-fleet-street/