Photo Flash: SWEENEY TODD Manila Opening Weekend

Repertory Philippines' (REP) incarnation of 1979 Tony-winning musical SWEENEY TODD, THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET officially opened its doors to Filipino audiences on November 14, 2009 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Ayala Center, Makati City.  The production earned thunderous applause, standing ovations, and played to nearly sold-out crowds in its first performances.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler, this production boasts a formidable cast. Led by theatre stalwart Audie Gemora in the title role, the musical also features major role players Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo (Mrs. Lovett), Robbie Guevara (Beadle), Robbie Zialcita (Pirelli), Roger Chua (Judge Turpin), Liesl Batucan (beggar woman), and REP newcomers Marvin Ong (Tobias), Lena McKenzie (Johanna), and Franco Laurel (Anthony). 

Lending musical support is Gerard Salonga conducting the FILharmoniKA, while Baby Barredo and Michael Williams co-direct. 

REP's SWEENEY TODD will run until December 13, 2009, with Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3:30 p.m. For tickets, call (632) 887-0710, 888-0887 or log on to www.repertory.ph or Ticketworld at www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Photos by Joel Reyes and Ulysses Manuel