Presented by South Coast Choral and Arts Society (SCCAS)
Reviewed 13 May 2017
Upon leaving the theatre it was clear that the audience had thoroughly enjoyed this performance of Sweeney Todd, and this reviewer had just seen one of the best amateur productions in South Australia. All involved with this fantastic show should be very proud of what they have delivered here.
Director JJ Geelen has paid so much attention to detail and ensured that his cast use the stage well. This experienced Director clearly knows the show and how it should be staged, sharing the credit with Jonathan Ogilvie (Assistant Director) and John Williams (Stage Manager).
The orchestra sounded beautiful lead by Derek Walter, who as Musical Director, ensured the cast were in fine form also. The set was phenomenal, and so clever! It was as simple as they come but used to such great effect, with all scenes/rooms set in place throughout the entire show. Geelen again takes credit here, with notable mentions to James Stewart (scenic artwork) and Allan Theisinger (set construction). Costumes used were also of a very high standard and Millie Doherty clearly has an eye for detail.
Wayne Scotton, in the principal role of Sweeney Todd was playing a role he was made for. He gave this character so much depth and this reviewer will not forget his performance any time soon. Penny Smith as Mrs. Lovett was also stunning, her beautiful voice being a particular standout. Scotton and Smith also had great chemistry on stage, especially shown in By The Sea.
Another couple in the show who also had strong chemistry were young Andrew Smith as Anthony, and Kiera Turner as Johanna. Smith and Turner both had beautiful voices and looked so comfortable on stage together. Alexandra Aubrey plays the mysterious beggar woman well and makes the most of this small yet pivotal role.
The younger cast members really shone through in this production with Jo Kelly as Tobias, and Dylan Rufus as Pirelli, also making the most of these roles. Kelly did struggle to hit some of the higher range parts of Not While I’m Around, but he was brilliant towards the end of Act II in the final scenes.
Notable mentions must also be made to both Wayne Good and Jon Grear, playing characters we loved to hate and doing so with ease. Grear portrayed Beadle Bamford in a way this reviewer hadn’t seen done before and it was very well done. The ensemble can also not go without being congratulated for being so strong, from the high soprano Tielah-Jade Cannon to the young Tom Richardson who was visibly nervous in his opening scene but found his groove towards the finale.
I cannot praise this production enough. I was thoroughly impressed and would recommend anyone to get out and see this show before the season comes to an end. You will not be disappointed, plus they even sell meat pies during the interval; the worst pies in London I hear.
Reviewed by Daniel Knowles
Venue: Victor Harbor Town Hall
Season: Until 27 May 2017
Duration: 2 hours 30 mins (including a 20 min Interval)
Tickets: Adult $20.00, Concession (Students and Pensioners) $18.00 each, Child (14 years and under) $15.00 each, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) $60.00, Group Booking (10 or more people) $18.00 each
Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=263564 or RAA Victor Harbor, 66 Ocean St, Victor Harbor SA 5211, Phone: (08) 8552 1033 or at the performances unless sold out.
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