Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

The Attic Theatrical is a relatively new community theatre group on the central coast but they've certainly made a big splash with their latest production, Sweeney Todd.  Right from the get-go the Dickensian London atmosphere is appropriately dark, ominous and unsettling.  David Rowe's clever set design affords many entry points for the cast in an intimate setting that really draws the audience into the action.

The ensemble is small but very powerful as they weave their way through a variety of roles on high rotation.  The depth of talent here is extraordinary, including the youthful energy of Bryn Watkeys, the experience of Olivia Rowe and the vocal powerhouse Sancia West. Director Scott Russell is indeed blessed to have talent of this calibre in the supporting cast.

When Christopher Martin enters as the protagonist we are immediately in awe of both his physicality and his aura.  Not only does he sing the role with conviction but he also acts the part very skillfully, descending from unhinged at the start to blood lusting madness in the final stages.  Martin commands the stage and is an excellent fit for the brooding Sweeney. The task of counter-balancing Martin falls on the shoulders of Ruth Tiffen, who brings the macabre pie-maker Mrs Lovett to life.  Tiffen tries hard but doesn't quite match the stage presence and powerful vocals of Martin.

Brandon Alexander gives a lovely portayal of Anthony and we thoroughly believe in his love for the young, naive Johanna played by Christiana Wann.  Raif Colbert Smith is appropriately creepy as her 'father' Judge Turpin and his flagellation scene (which is sometimes downplayed) was front, centre and powerful.  Sam Leslie is well cast as the slimy Beadle and Simone George nearly steals every scene she is in as the tragic beggar woman.  Gareth Davis leaves his signature stamp with the small but flamboyant role of Pirelli and Jordan Snook makes a cameo appearance in "By The Sea" that is Oscar worthy.

Having said all of that, the standout performance for this reviewer was Alexander Rowe in the role of Tobias. Rowe is vulnerable and strong all at once with beautiful vocal tone and acting prowess that belies his youth. He had me wanting to break the fourth wall and dive onto the stage to comfort him.  His portrayal is so compelling and polished that it wouldn't surprise me at all if he seamlessly transitions from community theatre to the professional stage. It is worth the price of admission to see his performance alone.

Christopher Hochkins has done a good job with Sondheim's notoriously tricky music and Amanda Woodbine's choreography is simple but effective.  This musical is not an easy endeavour for community theatre but Russell and his team should be congratulated for a job well done.

Sweeney Todd plays at The Art House, Wyong until Saturday 12th. Grab any last minute tickets if you can.   8.5 meat pies out of 10.

Fiona Kelly

Photography by Joseph Issa.