Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd
Long-reigning king of the Australian and international stage, Anthony Warlow, is set to star as the dark, blood-soaked ‘Demon Barber of Fleet Street’, Sweeney Todd.
Hitting Aussie theatres in June this year, audiences will have a chance to witness a killer lineup of great talent for a limited season. Joining the cast as the infamous Mrs Lovett is comedy legend, Gina Riley – who’s best known for her sassy role in the long-running TV hit ‘Kath and Kim’.
This dynamic duo is set to do wonders as these quirky characters, some of which have previously been acted by Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter in the 2007 movie blockbuster. Not to mention, it’s attracted stage talent like Patti LuPone, Norm Lewis, Michael Ball, Imelda Staunton, and Angela Lansbury to take on the formidable opportunity.
Anthony is no stranger to the performing arts scene and bringing darkly complex characters to life. Known best for his performance in the Australian tour of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, he’s also unleashed his incredible vocals on the ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ 1990 concept album, as Tevye in the critically acclaimed production of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ and in the role of Dr Yuril Zhivago in the world premiere of ‘Doctor Zhivago’ (a role that was in fact written for him to play).
Anthony spoke out on this new acting challenge and the fresh take he hopes to bring to the mysterious character.
“I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to submerge myself in Stephen Sondheim’s master score for ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’,” he said.
“This gift of a role, one I have coveted for so long, has finally arrived. I look forward to adding Mr Todd to the illustrious canon of characters I have had the privilege of playing over the years.”
On the other barber hand, known for her work on Australian screens, Gina has also taken much of a turn on stage; having recently played in Oscar Wilde’s ‘An Ideal Husband’ at Melbourne Theatre Company. Gina has also acted as Matron Mama Morton in ‘Chicago’, The Baker’s Wife in ‘Into The Woods’, and Janet in ‘The New Rocky Horror Picture Show’. With her experience in both serious, and comedic roles, and her powerhouse voice, Riley is the perfect choice for the tragi-comedic role of Mrs Lovett.
‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ is set is on the streets of 19th Century London, and tells the tale of an unjustly accused and exiled barber. When Sweeney returns to his Fleet Street shop with the intent to pursue a bloodied revenge on those who have wronged him, he realises his problem of covering up such murders. Enter Mrs Lovett, the owner of the downstairs pie shop, who presents him with a unique solution.
Stephen Sondheim’s notorious difficult score is a challenge for an ambitious creative. The musical first opened on Broadway in 1979 and handily won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Increasing in popularity, the franchise has spawned dozens of revivals and tours. Its dark humour, powerful score, and intent societal commentary make it a firm fan favourite.
Proudly produced by TEG Life Like Company for its 2019 season, ‘Sweeney Todd’ will celebrate its 40th year in June, playing at Sydney’s Darling Harbour Theatre and Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre.
The season is strictly limited, so chances are tickets will sell fast. Book your appointment with Mr Todd quickly to secure your spot in one of Australia’s top theatrical events of the year.
For more information, visit www.lifelikecompany.com or https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=SWEENEYT19 to secure your place in the barber’s chair. Sweeney’s waiting.
