Sweeney Todd Is a Tasty Treat

Production of Dark Musical Triumphs

Mary Damiano, The Express

Rape, murder, madness, self-flagellation, cannibalism—not your typical fodder for a musical—but that’s Stephen Sondheim for you. The complex composer’s master work, Sweeney Todd, is now being given terrific treatment by the Pembroke Pines Theatre of the Performing Arts in a production that runs through Sept. 28 at the River of Grass Arts Park in Pembroke Pines.  The musical, which takes place in 1890s London and tells the tale of Sweeney Todd, the demon barber of Fleet Street, is not an easy piece to do. It features Sondheim’s trademark music and lyrics, which are both operatic and full of rolling rhythms. The songs require substantial vocal dexterity, and the fine cast of this production is up to the challenge.  Sweeney Todd opens as the title character, newly escaped from prison and using an assumed name, lands in London determined to take revenge on the sicko judge who destroyed his family and ruined his life. He sets up a barber shop above the sweet shop of Mrs. Lovett, who recognizes him from the old days. Smitten with the crazed barber, she assists in his plans for revenge. When an old colleague recognizes Sweeney and threatens to expose him as the convict, Sweeney kills the man. But how will he dispose of the body? Let’s just say that Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies begin featuring a brand new, unusual flavor that becomes all the rage in London.  Sweeney Todd is a deliciously wicked musical, and this production is engrossing and entertaining. James Cichiewicz is fun and creepy as the murderer hell-bent on revenge. Cindy Pearce is an absolute delight as Mrs. Lovett, and provides a perfect comic balance to Cichiewicz’s desperate, single-minded character. Michael Torok and Bianca Raborg are perfect as the young lovers of the piece. Young Gary Entin does a nice turn as a young man who stumbles upon too much of the truth. And Marc Lewis gives a new dimension to what could have been a one-note villain.  Director Alvin Entin keeps things moving and creates a haunting atmosphere with his sullen-faced chorus and simple staging. This is a fine production of a modern classic, and should not be missed.