BYRON – Theater lovers, or those who simply enjoy a good murder mystery, have a unique opportunity this month: Byron Theater Troupe’s production of Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, running March 19-22 in the Byron Middle School theater.
The source for composer Stephen Sondheim’s musical is a Victorian penny dreadful, a type of sensational or thrilling tale told in weekly installments, each of which sold for one penny. In Sweeny Todd, a barber takes revenge on those who’ve wronged him with the help of a struggling pie-shop owner, who mysteriously begins to profit from the number of his victims. A 2007 movie adaptation of Sweeny Todd stars Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.
“At its heart it this is a story about rich vs poor, classism, revenge and what it does to your soul, and the tragedy of how that destroys people’s lives. It is a cautionary tale told with a good sense of humor,” says director Jen Wygant.
Parents should be advised that due to the subject matter, the play may not be appropriate for young children. Sweeny Todd runs March 19-22 in the Byron Middle School Theater. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday March 22 matinee starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, and are $6 for students or senior citizens, $12 for adults.
