Endicott College's "Sweeney Todd": A Hauntingly Astonishing Production

Beware the demon barber on Fleet Street.

Endicott College presented a hauntingly astonishing production of “Sweeney Todd.” Set in 19th-century London, Benjamin Barker returns home under the alias Sweeney Todd, after being wrongfully imprisoned. Out for revenge, Todd partners with Mrs. Lovett and feigns his barber shop for murderous killings.

I was captivated from the first musical note, sitting forward in my seat. Students magnificently brought this dark tale to life with remarkable skill. “Sweeney Todd” is a story like no other. Theater is all about experimenting, and Endicott College's production boldly opened new doors to fresh and inventive ideas.

Sweeney Todd was played by Eamon Arthur, a talented actor who has played a variety of versatile roles during his time at Endicott. Arthur’s voice is operatic, which resonated beautifully in songs “No Place Like London” and “My Friends.” He channeled Todd’s conflicting dark nature, creating a human being who is spiraling out of control from undeserved hate.

Equally amazing is Maria Groover as Mrs. Lovett. Groover excelled in this vocally challenging role, singing the fast and tongue-twisting songs like a pro. She was so bubbly, acrobatic, and energetic in all of her songs.

While Mrs. Lovett is a popular singing role, her vocal work tends to overshadow her character. She is somewhat of an enigma. Lovett’s song “By the Sea” reflects her desires for connection. Groover not only excelled in the vocal work, but she also connected with the character’s lonely nature.

Arthur and Groover created a riveting dynamic. They were tremendous in all their scenes, particularly Act 1’s finale song, “A Little Priest.”

“Sweeney Todd” has several characters, who are each going through their own tales. Anthony Hope (Ryan Abbott) falls in love with Johanna (Gabby Wheeler), a young maiden who is trapped at the hands of the ruthless Judge Turpin (Dylan Brewster).

Abbott and Wheeler had sweet chemistry. I always liked Anthony and Johanna’s story. It’s a different love story where Anthony helps free Johanna from a horrible threat. They also had terrific singing voices.

In the theater, no small part exists. Simeon Owens (Beadle Bamford), Emma Young (Tobias Ragg), MJ Flood (Adolfo Pirelli), Anna Petro (Beggar Woman), and Gabby Pena (Jonas Fogg) did a splendid job in their roles. Ensemble members played streetgoers, birdsellers, or mysterious shadows. Their energy was so vibrant, animated, and fiery in all the dances.

Speaking of which, Alli Moody’s choreography was a standout element, perfectly complementing the show’s dark tone. Moody’s fast-paced dance combinations heightened the tension. There was so much happening in each scene that, suddenly, characters appeared when motions halted.

The technical elements in Endicott’s “Sweeney Todd” were incredible, transporting audiences into this dark London world. Ryan Spruck’s lighting design was haunting, using bold red hues that ignited off characters' faces. It sent goosebumps up my spine. Nick Raponi’s set design further enhanced London’s streets and Todd’s barber shop.

The music of “Sweeney Todd” is exhilarating. Conductor Becca Kenneally and a live orchestra delivered sharp, fast-paced melodies of the late Stephen Sondheim’s work. Songs included “Poor Things,” “God, That’s Good,” and “City on Fire.”

I am still reeling that this was Kyle Gregory’s musical theater debut, having mainly directed plays. His direction was commendable, adding unique moments that made audiences lean forward and enjoy every moment. His main drive was equating the theme of love, a trait that isn’t recognized enough in the show.

“Although this musical poses a magnitude of questions, it is the power of love that drives everything in our world forward,” said Gregory.

Seeing “Sweeney Todd” performed on Endicott College’s stage was an unforgettable experience. Everyone involved should be proud of their immense hard work.