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| Stagecoach Theatre
Arts Oxford |
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This August, Stagecoach put on a gripping production of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's musical thriller, Sweeney Todd, as a holiday workshop, at Headington School, Oxford.
Stagecoach Theatre Arts School aims to “nurture and develop” children with part-time training in the performing arts. This production was performed by a selection of their students aged 11 to 19, although the age gap went unnoticeable behind the cast’s professionalism and maturity, a credit to the Stagecoach team.
The chilling story of Sweeney Todd, is famous for its fatal mix of love and revenge, the murder of the barber’s ill-fated customers and a mysterious new pie filling. The Stagecoach team did not fail to capture the eerie horror in any area of the production. The smoky stage, dark eyed make up and rustic costumes all contributed to the anxious atmosphere. Not to mention the amusing irony of pork pies and marzipan fingers served during the interval; superb attention to detail.
The cast themselves were extremely talented. The female lead vocals from Harriet Matthews (Mrs Lovett) and Chantelle Vircavs (Johanne) stole the show, although the acting was of an equally high standard as the cast nailed the cockney accent. Luke Mercieca’s amusing Italian charisma as Pirelli also stands out as, from Malta, Luke is one of the actors taking part in an annual exchange. The exchange students deserve extra credit for doing so well in their second language. Harriet Matthews gave an exceptional performance as she effortlessly fulfilled the multiple roles of Mrs Lovett. Harriet, 17, admits it was “hard work” but “heart lifting and inspiring.” Sweeney Todd was played by James Penniston, 17, who executed the evil nature perfectly. James said he would definitely play the villain again, describing it as “emotional turmoil.” Ryan Anderson (Toby) brought endearing youth to the production, charmingly portraying his love for Mrs Lovett. Ryan, 16, “loved every second of it.”
Maya Sprigg, Principal of Stagecoach Oxford, thought Sweeney Todd to be an impossible challenge. However, with the musicality made graceful by Dan Cowtan, Musical Director, a committed team and hard work, it was, agreeably, a “testament to the calibre of the staff and cast.”
David Wilson, the director, has achieved great success with this production, which unbelievably was put together in just 7 days, very impressive. It was brilliantly delivered and fantastically dramatic and gory. Although, unlike the actors, I don’t think I want a go on the infamous demon barber’s chair!
Reviewed by Emma-Louise Pritchard |
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