Contemporary Theater Company Opens SWEENEY TODD Tonight

Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a chilling musical thriller? Sweeney Todd, opening tonight, October 16, at the Contemporary Theater Company, is filled with ghostly memories, hauntingly beautiful music, revenge, and murder.

Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd has become a modern classic since opening on Broadway in 1979, and gained additional popularity after the 2007 film starring Johnny Depp. However, the character of Sweeney Todd, a murderous barber, has been around since the 1800s.

Sweeney Todd tells the tale of a man exiled for 15 years, who returns to seek revenge on the man who wronged him long ago. As he spirals downward, he becomes entwined with pie-maker Mrs. Lovett, and thus a murderous (and profitable) plot is devised. With moments of sweetness, comedy, and terror, Sweeney Todd is mesmerizing.

"We do a big musical once every two years," says stage manager Maggie Cady. "In 2013, we did Assassins and loved working on Sondheim's gorgeous music, so Sweeney Todd was an easy choice for us."

In the Contemporary Theater Company's 100-seat theater, every show takes on an intimate feeling. The company is known for their ever-changing sets and audience seating. Cady says the design for this show is meant to bring the audience close to the action, making every moment more exciting and terrifying than ever.

Sweeney Todd is directed by the Contemporary Theater Company's Artistic Director, Christopher Simpson, with music direction by Jean Maxon-Carpenter. The cast of Rhode Island locals includes Jason Shealy, Eden Casteel, Alison King Anthony, Terry Shea, Maggie Papa, Alex Bermudez, Ari Kassabian, JR Casey, Paige Barry, Amelia Giles, Philip Ryng, Erin Toppa, and Steve Pacheco.

Information on the tickets, membership, and the upcoming expansion at the Contemporary Theater Company are available online at www.contemporarytheatercompany.com or by calling 401-218-0282.

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