A Star-Studded Succession at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre
In the world of Broadway, where stars rise and fall, the announcement of new leads is always a cause for excitement. Today, we bring you thrilling news that Tony winner Aaron Tveit and two-time Tony winner Sutton Foster are set to grace the stage in the much-anticipated Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.”
The Stellar Duo: Aaron Tveit and Sutton Foster
These two talented actors are poised to take over the iconic roles of Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett in this dark and gripping tale. Their performances are scheduled for a 12-week limited run, commencing on February 9, 2024. Tveit and Foster are stepping into big shoes, following in the footsteps of original stars Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford.
Farewell to Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford
Before we delve into the excitement surrounding the arrival of Tveit and Foster, it’s only fair to bid farewell to Groban and Ashford. These two luminaries will take their final bow on January 14, 2024, after enthralling audiences with their unforgettable portrayals of Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett.
Previous Broadway Endeavors of Tveit and Foster
Aaron Tveit’s most recent Broadway stint was as Christian in “Moulin Rouge!” This performance earned him a well-deserved 2020 Tony Award. Sutton Foster, on the other hand, graced the stage as Marian Paroo in the 2022 revival of “The Music Man,” which not only garnered her a seventh Tony nomination but also the prestigious Drama League Distinguished Performance Award.
The Resurgence of Sweeney Todd on Broadway
The Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s masterpiece has been nothing short of a sensation since it began its run at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on February 26, 2023. Under the expert direction of Thomas Kail, this revival officially opened its doors on March 26 and has been met with critical acclaim and fervent applause.
The Award-Winning Revival
This production of “Sweeney Todd” made quite an impression at the 2023 Tony Awards, earning a staggering eight nominations. Among these, it secured victories in the categories of Best Lighting Design of a Musical (courtesy of Natasha Katz) and Best Sound Design of a Musical, crafted by Nevin Steinberg.
The Talented Cast of Sweeney Todd
Apart from the celebrated leads, the cast is a constellation of talent. Gaten Matarazzo, known for his role in “Stranger Things,” captivated audiences as Tobias, until November 5, when a replacement actor was announced. The lineup also includes the remarkable Ruthie Ann Miles as the Beggar Woman, Daniel Yearwood as Anthony, Maria Bilbao as Johanna, Jamie Jackson as Judge Turpin, John Rapson as Beadle Bamford, and Nicholas Christopher as Pirelli.
A Symphony of Sound: Jonathan Tunick’s Orchestration
One remarkable aspect of this revival is the inclusion of Jonathan Tunick’s full, 26-piece orchestration, a rarity on Broadway since the original 1979 production. Musical supervision is handled by the three-time Tony winner Lacamoire, offering audiences a true auditory delight. A cast album of this mesmerizing score was released in September, allowing fans to relive the magic at home.
The Macabre Tale of Sweeney Todd
Based on the Christopher Bond play of the same name, “Sweeney Todd” delves into the life of the titular barber, who seeks revenge on a corrupt judge and turns to murder as a means to achieve justice. His partnership with Mrs. Lovett results in the creation of sinister meat pies that offer a chilling solution to disposing of the evidence. The grim and captivating narrative keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
The Creative Team Behind the Curtain
The success of any Broadway production is not solely reliant on its cast but also on the dedication of the creative minds working behind the scenes. This revival boasts choreography by the talented Steven Hoggett, scenic design by Mimi Lien, costume design by Emilio Sosa, and lighting design by Natasha Katz. Sound design, responsible for enveloping the audience in a world of audio wonder, is meticulously crafted by Nevin Steinberg. Special effects design, to add that extra touch of enchantment, is handled by Jeremy Chernick. Completing the magical transformation are the wig, hair, and make-up designs, courtesy of J. Jared Janas. The casting process is in the capable hands of The Telsey Office, with Nick Lugo and James Hickey from Baseline Theatrical as the general managers. Finally, the production stage manager, Cody Renard Richard, ensures the seamless execution of this theatrical marvel.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Broadway, the arrival of new stars is a testament to the enduring power of the stage. Aaron Tveit and Sutton Foster, following in the illustrious footsteps of Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford, promise to bring a fresh and captivating energy to the Broadway revival of “Sweeney Todd.” As the dark and thrilling tale continues to enthrall audiences, we eagerly await their performances, certain that they will leave an indelible mark on the history of this timeless masterpiece. Broadway is alive with talent, and these new leads will undoubtedly shine brightly among the stars.