BWW Reviews: Kelrik's SWEENEY TODD a Dynamite Hit at the El Portal

Sweeney Todd/book by Hugh Wheeler/music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim/directed by Kristin Towers-Rowles for Kelrik Productions/at the Monroe Forum Theatre of the El Portal, NoHo/through May 10

Sweeney Todd first bowed on Broadway in late 1979. Fortunately, I was in New York to witness the brilliant achievement of Hugh Wheeler and Stephen Sondheim, Angela Lansbury and Len Cariou and the entire creative team. Kelrik Productions is presenting the masterwork for the first time, hardly an easy task in a small intimate theatre space such as the Monroe Forum Theatre of the El Portal. Well, let me tell you, they may be exceedingly proud of this production, as it replicates just about everything that the original achieved, minus a full orchestra. Every detail, every move and every musical beat are in line with wonderful musical director Joe Lawrence at the piano. With a perfect cast and brilliantly inventive direction and staging from Kristin Towers-Rowles, this Sweeney Todd could not be better.

ST is my very favorite musical of all time, and as I sat mesmerized Friday night, I realized that it has comedy, drama, a thrilling musical score - perhaps Sondheim's best, mystery, adventure, several love stories rolled into one, and a real historical background of London in the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century; in short, it has everything that anyone could want from a musical play. Of course, those that have issues with cannibalism will object, at least at first, but even they should not argue with its broad sense of imagination and titillating edge.

What a divinely talented ensemble! Douglas Ladnier makes a dynamically vengeful, intensely fierce and cold Sweeney, with an uber strong focus and commitment to the role. Alison England as Mrs. Lovett is sheer joy. Like Angela Lansbury she brings not only depth but a big, broad style that includes some beautiful seemingly spontaneous comic turns. Both Ladnier and England have the big rich singing chops necessary to sing the near.to.operatic score. Matt Steele is a precious and caring Tobias, and Kendra Munger as Lucy/Beggar Woman lends the right amount of raw emotional intensity. Alxander Jon as Anthony and Devon Davidson as Joanna make terrific eye and ear candy with their handsome good looks and beautiful singing voices.

In the supporting cast Craig McEldowney as Beadle Bamford does not miss a beat, nor does Mark Rohner as Pirelli/Fog. Chuck McCollum brings deep-seated lasciviousness to the role of Judge Turpin. All are superb under Towers-Rowles' steady control. The set design by Erik Austin is simple but wonderfully functional and Michael Mukllen's costumes fit the bill. Brisk choreography is by Samantha Marie, who, like Towers-Rowles must be credited for making it all work so well on such a tiny stage. One nice element in this production is that audience is at arm's reach and allows for an intimacy with the story and characters that the larger space does not permit.

What a fabulous production of one of the greatest musicals in theatre history! I cannot begin to explore the difficulties inherent in producing/directing Sweeney Todd. It is indeed a monster. Bravo to Kelrik Productions and the incredibly adept Kristin Towers-Rowles for their dedicated and fruitful work. Go see this production through May 10! There are many, many surprises that will amaze you and hold you awestruck.

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