Get ready for ‘Sweeney Todd’ with a Sondheim-studded concert

Get ready for ‘Sweeney Todd’ with a Sondheim-studded concert

By Samantha Sherman For Vashon Repertory Theatre • December 21, 2022 1:30 am
Stephanie Murray (left), and Bradley J. Thomas will play the lead roles of Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd, in an upcoming island production of “Sweeney Todd,” and first join other members of the cast in a Jan. 7 benefit concert for the show (Courtesy Photos).
Stephanie Murray (left), and Bradley J. Thomas will play the lead roles of Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd, in an upcoming island production of “Sweeney Todd,” and first join other members of the cast in a Jan. 7 benefit concert for the show (Courtesy Photos).

There’s nothing simple about Stephen Sondheim’s plays and that’s their appeal.

Part of Sondheim’s genius was in his heart-stopping skill at capturing the highest and lowest moments in human experience and setting them to music — such is the case with one of his most beloved masterworks, “Sweeney Todd,” which Vashon Repertory Theatre will present in February, at Vashon Center for the Arts.

But first, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Vashon Center for the Arts, the talented cast of Vashon Rep’s upcoming production of the musical will perform a musical benefit featuring some of Sondheim’s most beloved songs.

The concert, “Simply Sondheim,” will introduce the cast of Sweeney Todd as they sing favorites from Sondheim’s “Into The Woods,” “Sunday In The Park with George,” “Follies” and, of course, “Sweeney Todd.”

Hosted by Voice of Vashon standouts Jeff Hoyt and Jeannie Dougherty, “Sweeney Todd” cast members Stephanie Murray (Mrs. Lovett), Bradley J. Thomas (Sweeney Todd), Arlette Moody (Beggar Woman), and others will perform some of Sondheim’s most memorable tunes.

The evening includes a silent auction, wine from Palouse Winery, and beer from Camp Colvos.

It’s the best of Broadway, right here on Vashon, for only $35 per person. Tickets are limited and available now at www.vashoncenterforthearts.org.

All proceeds go to Vashon Repertory Theatre, a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. For more information about the production of “Sweeney Todd,” to be presented Feb. 16-26, at Vashon Center for the Arts, visit vashonrepertorytheatre.org.