This November, prepare to be immersed in the shadowy and suspenseful world of Victorian London as Penn State Centre Stage proudly presents Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece, “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street”. From November 12th to 22nd, the Playhouse Theatre on the University Park campus will transform into the eerie setting for this iconic musical, under the fresh and innovative direction of Zack Steele.
Steele, a master of fine arts directing student, brings his unique vision and profound creativity to this revival of “Sweeney Todd”. Audiences can expect a production that delves into the complex themes of the play with a contemporary lens, exploring the dark heart of Victorian society and the chilling quest for justice.
At the core of “The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” is Benjamin Barker, a barber unjustly exiled and reborn as Sweeney Todd, fueled by a burning desire for revenge against the corrupt Judge Turpin who destroyed his life. Todd’s path intertwines with Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful and pragmatic pie shop owner. Together, they embark on a gruesome partnership, where Mrs. Lovett’s pies become the macabre solution to both their problems, set against the backdrop of Todd’s increasingly bloody pursuit of vengeance.
Artistic Director A. Kikora Franklin highlights the collaborative and immersive nature of this production: “What you will see and experience in Zack’s rendering of the piece, is the culminating work of a uniquely talented and industrious cast, crew, and production team who are excited to bring this show to life. ‘Sweeney’ illustrates to all who witness it, that theater is one of the most inherently interdisciplinary art forms, where storytelling emerges not only from the performers on stage but from the collaboration of numerous artistic and technical disciplines working in harmony.” Franklin emphasizes the total theatrical experience, promising audiences will be transported into the unsettling world of the demon barber.
Student dramaturg Mitchel Case offers a deeper perspective on the play’s enduring relevance: “In our production, the Chorus asks if Sweeney is the only one brave enough to wrest power away from the wealthy classes. If subjected to similar pressures — a corrupt government system, a personal life in ruin, and little possibility of change — we might view Sweeney’s actions more empathetically. In his vengeful efforts to hold Turpin accountable, Sweeney Todd becomes more than himself — he is transformed into a figurehead for the lower classes.” Case suggests this production of “The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” encourages audiences to reflect on contemporary issues of power, justice, and the lengths one might go to in the face of systemic corruption. “How do we interact with the levers of power? And how far are we willing to go to change our circumstances? Would we do anything? Perhaps the only way to know is for us to ‘attend the tale.'”
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a powerful and thought-provoking rendition of Stephen Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”. Evening performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. with tickets priced at $28. The preview performance is offered at $23, and student tickets are available for $15. For further details about the show and ticket purchases, please visit the Penn State Centre Stage website. Non-Penn State Arts and Architecture students can take advantage of free admission during the production week by visiting the Arts Ticket Centre in Eisenhower Auditorium. Prepare for an unforgettable theatrical experience with the demon barber this November.
