Sweeney Todd

This time they take a murderous tone with a new production of Stephen Sondheim's acclaimed musical Sweeney Todd.

And in the lead role is the society's very own Barber'!

In this fictional black comedy based on historical events in Victorian London, Sweeney Todd is a fugitive bent on revenge against the system which convicted him and the evil Judge Turpin who disgraced his wife and stole away his daughter, Johanna.

In the lead role is Peter Barber, a Southampton Operatic veteran, whose last name is uncannily well suited to the eponymous title character, subtitled as The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.' Things take a murderous turn for Sweeney when he joins forces with pie shop owner Mrs Lovett, an unsuccessful baker of meat pies, who has fallen upon hard times.

Together they plot a scheme with murderous consequences.

Following on from the recent BBC adaptation starring Ray Winstone in January, Southampton Operatic Society faces a huge challenge to accomplish such a gritty and technical production.

Director Malcolm Clarke said, "Sweeney is a far cry from the society's usual fare, but the company has risen to the challenge admirably and with enthusiasm.

With rotating scenery, trap doors and complicated music, we are undergoing an intense rehearsal schedule to ensure that the technical element is as slick as possible and every member is committed to making the show a success, which I am delighted about.

The society is very fortunate to have so many young and talented members and the show is coming together nicely. Our audiences are surely in for a treat."

Sweeney Todd will be performed at The Nuffield Theatre between Tuesday and Saturday.

Tickets are priced £8 / £12 and can be purchased from the box office on 023 8067 1771.