Sweeney Todd

Birmingham Rep

Razor Sharp and a Cut Above the Rest

★★★★★

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street has brought his cut-throat razors to the Rep, carving out one of the season's must-see productions.

Directed by Joe Murphy, this musical thriller serves up a deliciously dark triumph. A seven-piece orchestra, led by John Rigby, brings Stephen Sondheim's cinematic score thrillingly to life. An ensemble of eleven actors traverse the world above and below Fleet Street with depth and dark humour. Lady Justice, designed by Elin Steel, dominates the set, serving as a constant reminder of impartiality, fairness and power - principles the characters either uphold or corrupt. Rory Beaton's lighting design brilliantly highlights the moments when justice turns a blind eye, while creating atmospheric locations and dramatic shifts throughout. It's a production that reminds you why live theatre matters.

Leading the cast are Ramin Karimloo as Sweeney Todd, Meow Meow as Mrs Lovett and David Bedella as Judge Turpin. This fiercely talented trio bring humanity and complexity to three deeply flawed characters. A special mention must go to Meow Meow, whose Mrs Lovett is hilarious, heartbreaking and wholly original, honouring Sondheim's writing while making the role unmistakably her own. With sublime vocals, fearless physicality and astonishing comic timing, she delivers a performance of remarkable originality and emotional depth.

At the heart of the production, Murphy explores what happens to people when society fails them. Karimloo brings emotional depth to a man consumed by grief and driven by a desperate need for justice, while Bedella crafts a chilling Judge Turpin who continually finds ways to justify his own evil. Florence Andrews shines as the Beggar Woman, handling her character's journey with dexterity and detail.

The costumes burst against the monochrome stage, vividly illustrating the divide between those with wealth and those without.

The production is gripping, slick and impeccably paced. The running time passes as unnoticed as a body disappearing from Todd's barber's chair.

It's a must-see!