Scotch College

Sweeney Todd – it’s sure to be a slashing success

This year’s OSMaD production promises a night of thrills, spills, shrills and a rollicking good musical yarn.

Words: Mr Richard Beveridge ('62) President

Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street – hailed by many as the greatest musical ever – is the Old Scotch Music and Drama Club’s theatrical event for 2011, in a season running from 14 to 29 October.

Sweeney Todd has been described as ‘highly energised, tightly paced, suspenseful, hilarious, quirky, horrifying and moving – everything a contemporary audience could require’. Its universal themes of love, betrayal, devotion and revenge told through the sophisticated music and lyrics of the 20th century musical master, Stephen Sondheim, have had reviewers, audiences and even those who are ambivalent about musicals waxing lyrical since its opening night in 1979.

As the New York Times enthused: ‘There is more artistic energy, creative personality and plain excitement [in Sweeney Todd] than in a dozen average musicals.’

Bringing Sweeney Todd to life for OSMaD is Chris Bradtke, the most awarded and respected director in non-professional theatre in Melbourne, and Ben Hudson, whose musical direction outcomes are often compared to the best on offer on the stages of Spring and Exhibition Streets. Together, they have assembled 29 of Melbourne’s most talented performers, led by Lee Threadgold as Sweeney. The very in-demand Brenton Staples’ inspired set and Jeremy Bailey-Smith’s ‘Steampunk’ style costumes will ensure the production is visually luscious.

With a pedigree like this, OSMaD’s Sweeney Todd is sure to be a hit. Ticket demand will be tight, so don’t wait – book now at www.osmad.com.au.

OSMaD’s short life has produced three outstanding productions – Les Misérables, Jesus Christ Superstar and My Fair Lady. With a combined 33 nominations and commendations from the prestigious Music Theatre Guild Awards (and a fair share of wins, including best musical direction for each show), OSMaD is now seen to be one of the best companies in Victoria.

OSMaD is an adult theatre company, and while associated with OSCA, is open to anyone and everyone to perform or work behind the scenes. For more information: www.osmad.com.au.