Theatre Review: Sweeney Todd, Crewe Lyceum Theatre

Sweeney Todd Lyceum Theatre, Crewe

TECHNICAL issues with

the volume of the microphones hampered the opening performance of Sweeney Todd.

But it is to be expected from a first night and they were soon resolved by the sound team and the overall standard of the performance by Kings Grove School at Crewe's Lyceum Theatre was incredibly high.

The actors, set-movers, sound and light team worked together so well, it was often easy to forget that you were watching a group of Crewe high school students.

Obviously the set and costumes were not expensive or very elaborate, but that seemed to matter less and less as the characters drew the audience into the story. Matthew Meachin played a Sweeney Todd that was sinister and a little frightening, but he also managed to work in some moments of humour throughout the play.

This was helped by Stephanie Blundell as Mrs Lovett, the partner in crime who wants to become Sweeney's lover.

They make an excellent pair and most of the comedy comes from the interaction between the two as they hatch their spine-chilling business plan.

Tom Essex is the perfect choice for Todd's enemy, Judge Turpin. His deep, booming voice exactly fits the character and it is impossible to imagine him in any other role.

But the most memorable performance came from Adam Thompson as Pirelli, a rival barber who threatens Todd's business.

His larger-than-life character and fake Italian accent are completely ridiculous and absolutely hilarious.

There was one unintentionally risqué moment involving a gun, which had everyone laughing, whether they wanted to or not.

But, like professionals, the actors recovered and managed to finish the scene on a serious note.

Despite the dark deeds and blood – don't worry, it's fake – that run throughout, you will leave the theatre at the end of the night with a smile on your face. The enthusiasm of the young actors is infectious.

Quite a few of the seats were empty though, which is disappointing, as this is a high quality show which deserves a full house every night.

Sweeney Todd is showing tonight at 7.30pm and tickets are £3. For details, call 01270 537333.

Hannah Thorley