HIS STORY has been hitting the headlines recently courtesy of a Hollywood A-lister called Johnny Depp.
Sweeney Todd, a new film starring Depp and actress Helena Bonham Carter has ensured that Fleet Street’s Demon Barber has once again stepped out of the shadows.
And no-one is more delighted to see the film get huge coverage, largely to the presence of Depp and of its director Tim Burton, Bonham Carter’s partner, than Lindley Amateur Operatic Society.
This year’s new film, which coincidentally is out on DVD today (see review on facing page), takes a fresh, if bloodsoaked look at the story of the infamous Sweeney Todd. But it is, after all, based on an award-winning musical with a book by Hugh Wheeler and music and lyrics by the remarkable Stephen Sondheim.
Lindley has decided to give Sweeney Todd a run for his money on stage early next year returning to the original West End and Broadway hit in a musical production of the demon barber’s murderous career.
The show will go on stage next February (10th to the 15th) at the Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield and the Lindley-based company will hold auditions next month to cast major roles.
Gilbert Wade will direct and Mark Breen has been asked to take on the musical director’s job.
It is thought to be the first time that Sweeney Todd will have been staged in Huddersfield by one of the town’s amateur companies and open auditions will be held on June 16 at St Stephen’s Church in Lindley.
If you are interested in what promises to be one of the most exciting and challenging musicals of next year, call Corinne Lord. Corrine is on 01484 651530 and will provide audition pieces. Good luck.
