Patti is brilliant as Mrs. Lovett, definitely my favorite (though I prefered her version in the 2000 concert better) and Michael Cerveris is also brilliant, but I've always thought of George Hearn as the best Sweeney.
i liked this version, but i also really liked the movie. i thought the acting was phenomenal, and i didn't mind the singing either. i think that the fact that johnny depp and helena bonham carter aren't singers made it much more believable. depp and bonham carter were SO funny together, too! and not to mention, they're both very easy on the eye hahahah
These people are great singers but personnally I prefer Tim Burtons take on this story, helena boham carter is perfect for lovett I think... really awsome though
@iSwampMonster Seeing it on YouTube like this doesn't do the show justice. I have seen it live (not this particular showing) and while the movie had the ability to have better sets and effects, they had to cut down the songs for time so in the movie version you miss out on half the fun - especially in this song. Notably, the whole "Tinker - Locksmith" section is removed, and much of the second half.
there is another one of these from a different performance taped by someone else you can see the difference this one is earlier and the other one (username:bernatthe) is later on because they are more comfortable in there roles and with eachother i love the rhyming lol HILARIOUS!!
this is so much worse than the angela lansbury version. I can't even believe it was on broadway. The set and costumes are terrible and just...WHAT EVEN?
I thought the movie had enough comedy, even though it was subtler than the play. My friend and I were cracking up when the corpses were being dropped on their heads, (come on, they bounced!) but nobody else in the theater was really laughing, so maybe you have to already know the musical to really feel the humor from the movie.. XD;
I agree, John Doyle's concept was good (I saw Company, same as this show with the actor's playing the music as well) but I would rather see a traditional revival, but with a different concept than the original (like the Chicago revival vs. the 75' OBC)
One thing I think was lacking in the Tim Burton version was the comedic aspect of it all, When you really think of it the show is really humorous. And Helena should have had a stronger character development. Helena is so talented and could have utilized her comedic talents but Tim's was darker. I love both of them.
@jocelyn0000 yeah, alot of the dryness was left out of Burtons. Also, it was alot of people's first experience with the show, and all hey saw was the gore. I wish they wold have filmed this production for PBS or something.
I have a question for you all. WHAT IS MRS. LOVETT'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS JUDGE TURPIN'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS BEADLE BAMFORD'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS TOBY'S LAST NAME? The only people who's full names are mentioned are Benjamin Barker/Sweeney Todd, and Adolpho Pirelli/Daniel O'Higgins.
it's irrelevant. knowing romeos last name doesn't make romeo and juliet less romantic...same wat as knowing these characters' last names doesn't make sweeny todd less tragic
I actually think this version of the song is way better than on the CD. Basically b/c you can see the action and the audience is great. They react just the way they should. I have a feeling when my hometown theater group puts this on it's not going to go over well....I love it though! Patti Lupone is brilliant!
though there is no canon considering her name, she's mostly called Nelly, but [according to Wikipedia :] her first name might as well be Marjorie, Maggie, Sarah, Shirley, Wilhemia or Claudetta...
4 some strange reason....i think that Patti let herself go....i mean...she "sang/acted/ok..looked" better back for the 2001 concert in San Francisco when she did Mrs. Lovett....... but still...i think Patti ROCKS!!!!!
i think the reason for that is because the whole point of John Doyle's direction of the revival was for it to be stripped down and much more subtle, so i definetly understand, patti basically put the lock and key on her theatrical for this show. That is why I despise this revival. The way the show was done was amazing, and I think this version is much less so. IT WAS FINE THE WAY IT WAS, IF IT'S BROKEN, WHY FIX IT? sorry, that was me getting out my anger towards John Doyle...
Uh, first of all, Stephen Sondheim himself approved this production. He saw it in England and pushed to have it moved to NYC. He said that it was the ONLY production that found frightening.
Second of all, it makes me crazy to read that things were "FINE THE WAY IT WAS..." jeez, theatre artists actually enjoy finding new and appropriate ways of doing older shows.
By putting "the lock and key" on Patti Lupone she actually was forced to find a new interpretation of the role.
Patti is quite good, but I can't get around Mr. Cerveris here. There's something not there - but I'm sure if I saw the entire performance, my thoughts would be far more concrete. Perhaps it's his vocal work - which has been excellent before (i.e. 'Hedwig', 'Tommy'), but here seems to be a bit off - though, it's lovely ... bleh. I'm all sorts of conflicted.
Don't get me wrong but I believe he is a bit 'soft' to be Sweeney Todd... I like his baritone voice, quite suitable, so I believe it's the acting that makes me think that way.
This cast is the one that made me really get into Sweeney Todd, I still hate what they did to the musical in the movie. They cut out half of the songs and half of the lyrics. Thanks for the clip, this is my favorite song.
AMEN! Thank you echoing my opinion! I have gotten into so many arguments over Burton/Depp's movie as a tremendous let-down. That movie should have been better cast and not one piece of music omitted! What was Sondheim thinking?! He cut the MAIN THEME of the show out! It's like watching JAWS without the shark's music! Take care!
Sondheim said it wouldn't fit in, and agreed it was better off without it. It's only a let down to you elitist broadway fans, get over yourselves, please. Open your mind, and welcome changes. You can't make a movie exactly the same as the play, you know how ridiculous that would be?
I don't know who you are and frankly nor do I wish to. You call me an elitist without knowing me personally. I am deeply offended by your comment, when I was just expressing my own opinion. Perhaps you should look at yourself and see if you're perched on your own high horse.
Exactly, it's an instrumental - NOT the song. A song requires lyrics being sung. NO lyrics were sung. Thus, they cut the song. I happened to enjoy the instrumental of The Ballad of Sweeney Todd. I just wish they kept the song IN the film... among other things. Again, my opinion... Peace.
Better cast?! Depp and Bonham Carter were amazing. They're not singers but I think they did pretty well. And Sondheim approved them as well.
I understand how fans of the theatrical version were let down by the movie. And I know it was darker and not as comical. But you have to admit, for it JUST being a musical movie it was good!
Personally I like the movie. It might have been because I saw it first. But still...
I don't mind the Lansbury (as Lovett) version either though.
Except they didn't cut HALF of the songs. It was way less than that. They were pretty faithful to the play. Most movies that were plays don't follow the same story. I don't really understand how anybody can hate the movie. Maybe not care for it, but that's about it.
Sweeney Todd is actually a black comedy play, but they only made it dark, that takes away the play all together. So when they took away the funny parts that made me really love the play, it made me rethink it. Believe me I love Tim Burton's work, but this he could have done so much better on. I respect your opinion and I'm glad you liked the movie.
And my mind is open to change, so long as the change aids the telling of the story. Jim Henson's "Little Shop of Horrors" was superb, even though they cut songs, added a new one and changed the ending. I felt it worked. I did not care for what Burton/Sondheim did to in their adaptation. Period.
Jim Henson did not do the film of "Little Shop"--it was Frank Oz. The changes to the film of "Sweeney" did not harm the story telling. The entire plot is still there. Remember folks, they were making a film. Not filming a Bway show.
This production was set out to be a love it or hate it version. Having actually worked on this production, and knowing all of the ins and outs . . its actually quite genius. It is a reinvention. In fact Sondheim originally conceieved Sweeney as simple stage piece. Harold Prince scaled it up for the Hearn Lansbury Production. If you are smart enough to catch it, there is a complexity to this production that rides right beneath the surface.
Michael Cerveris and Patti Lupone are both VERY talented, but Doyle's 'nouveau'-style of directing this is terrible, it ruined the show. The actors with intruments and minimal set and props worked well with "Company", but it looked ridiculous with a show like "Sweeney Todd".
Take my advice: Watch the 1982 George Hearn and Angela Lansbury DVD (also on Youtube), it's much better.
Although Angela and George are my absolute favorites I absolutely adore the chemistry betwen these two! :D They're awesome the way they naturally fall into the roles, joking around about such a morbid thought the way Todd and Lovett are meant to. Love it!
This is just awful. If you enjoyed this, then it's CLEAR you haven't seen George Hearn and Angela Lansbury. They ARE Sweeney and Lovett. This is CRAP.
this is probably one of the best revivals ever done on broadway!!! i saw it in Atlanta and it was absolutely amazing!!! and it could have only been better in NY!!!
I would agree that is a really good revival, but I enjoyed the Company revival with Raul Esparza more. I also think that the cast playing the instruments meshed better in Company than in this show.
Well, when Sweeney kills someone, Mrs. Lovett walks downstage and pours some blood from a bucket into another one. The only exception to that is when Sweeney kills Mrs. Lovett. When that happens it's Lucy who pours the blood.
i really like this video because the audience is so responsive and it really makes it more entertaining somehow. maybe because performers get so much more energy when the audience responds well
ok, the revival, and this is my interpretation, is sort of in an asylum where some THINK they are in the story, while others are just playing along. It opens with the one of the chorus having his straight jacket undone, Pirelli looks more like a doctor and she is sometimes following and observing (maybe not in this clip tho) interactions are often made without contact or looking at each other (old beggar at beginning of show) So it could be taking place today this version
The weird thing she did with her hair is a wig. And either she gained weight or, of course, the costuming is different in the in concert versions and the revival and it just makes her look like she's gained weight.
There's another word I like to hear: subjectivity. I know theater isn't about big dances or perfect singing, I'm not asking for a big dance by her, I just want to see her be in the role, live it.
I saw the concert version, with George as Sweeney and LuPone as Lovett and she performs a lot better there. Funny, seeing as I'd expect less flair in a concert than in a theater stage.
Perhaps saying she can't sing was a bit much, but I still stand by the rest. This performance is boring for me.
Too funny ;) I wish more of this song had been kept in the most recent version of the musical (the movie with Depp and Bonham-Carter) but it probably would've been deemed 'too long'...would've loved to see Helena sing the part about 'with or without his privates?" heh--that would've been hysterical in theatres! ;)
Patti's my favorite Lovett and Micheal's my second Sweeney after George Hearn. I listen to the revival cast CD CONSTANTLY and they sound just as good here :]
KUUUUDOOOOS to whoever taped this, fantastic quality.
No, had there been one it would have already been released. It was, though, filmed to be placed in the Lincoln Center Theatre Archives, like most musicals from the 70s on.
maybe they wanted something abit different lol.. or maybe they loved michael's voie and wasnt bothered if he was bald or had a head of hair lol....if i was casting a part i wouldnt be bothered what was on the top of their head as long as they could sing and hit the right notes that would do me lol
Angela Lansbury, while being the original were not great in terms of vocal performances.
Patti Lupone gives Mrs. Lovett a more realistic persona, and the saucy and sinister tendencies work incredibly well with the character. Plus she's funnier!
I think Helena had an EXCELLENT voice for the role, but she didn't quite portray Mrs. Lovett like the nutty kind of woman she was meant to be. But that's just my opinion.
Excellent voice? I thought Helen'a voice was annoying. But that's just my opinion. But, I did love her characterization! She was sort of a cute Ms. Lovett.
I agree. I thought HBC's voice was extremely weak. Mrs. Lovett needs to have a brassy singing voice. I prefer Lupone by a pretty wide margin to any other Mrs. Lovett, although I did like HBC's acting, at the very least.
I think people are hard on Cerveris and Lupone about this revival because they both had new, unique interpretations of the characters. To expect Patti to do Lovett the same way as Lansbury is just mad; they're two different women, and both great actors. Naturally they're going to play it differently. The same thing goes for Michael with Cariou and Hearn. Personally, I thought they both gave brilliant performances, and they're my favorite Todd and Lovett to date.
personally,i like lupone best.lupone does movements that completely work with the character and action.i love everything she does.she's small when she needs & big when she needs.i still think carter does an amazing job.she's more subtle and i like it. She's good with taking the dialogue and making it her own.also, when i think Mrs. lovett,she's physically my interpretation. Lansbury was good, and i liked some of hers, but she was too big at times and it made me cringe.&sorry, but i liked johnny.
although the design is not exactly to my taste, I do think that it is such a good idea cos the lack of set and extreme costumes really brings out the humour and wit in the lyrics.
I saw them last night, damn it was good. I got a few pics. with Edmund after the show =) and I gave money to the foundation. He's my favorite Toby to date.
I adore the acting, voices and motions of the characters in the revival, but the costumes, set and the fact that the non-active characters play instruments on the sides bothers me. Mrs. LuPone and Mr. Cerevis play so well off each other, but they look way out of the time period. The revival cast is my favorite recording for the voices.
I'm suprised Patti didn't flip out over someone filming her......
NHall609 5 months ago
@NHall609 As an actor... it is hard to tell if you don't use flash pictures! The bastards at gypsy were dumb enough to use flash photography!
macrent2 3 weeks ago
Patti is brilliant as Mrs. Lovett, definitely my favorite (though I prefered her version in the 2000 concert better) and Michael Cerveris is also brilliant, but I've always thought of George Hearn as the best Sweeney.
kgldude 5 months ago
i liked this version, but i also really liked the movie. i thought the acting was phenomenal, and i didn't mind the singing either. i think that the fact that johnny depp and helena bonham carter aren't singers made it much more believable. depp and bonham carter were SO funny together, too! and not to mention, they're both very easy on the eye hahahah
ahhtaylorx3 7 months ago
not my fave revival, but worth a watch :)
Gotenks7Kid 9 months ago
whoooaa.. i was just about to say "that girl loooks and sounds just like patti lupone." but it IS patti lupone O.o
ImaZombeh 1 year ago
Patti LuPone tends to "arrive overdone" herself...
gabrieljlivingston 1 year ago 9
These people are great singers but personnally I prefer Tim Burtons take on this story, helena boham carter is perfect for lovett I think... really awsome though
iSwampMonster 1 year ago
@iSwampMonster Seeing it on YouTube like this doesn't do the show justice. I have seen it live (not this particular showing) and while the movie had the ability to have better sets and effects, they had to cut down the songs for time so in the movie version you miss out on half the fun - especially in this song. Notably, the whole "Tinker - Locksmith" section is removed, and much of the second half.
FireDragons42 1 year ago
@FireDragons42 I suppose, I wish I could've seen it live, it's so different
iSwampMonster 1 year ago
hate hate hate. angela lansbury is a million time better at this. i cant believe they gave this part to her. she sucks.
seykrel 1 year ago
i saw this on broadway! fantastic! but the night we saw it, nobody laughed this much
Sk1nnyV1nny22 1 year ago 3
there is another one of these from a different performance taped by someone else you can see the difference this one is earlier and the other one (username:bernatthe) is later on because they are more comfortable in there roles and with eachother i love the rhyming lol HILARIOUS!!
broadwayloverny10 1 year ago
this is so much worse than the angela lansbury version. I can't even believe it was on broadway. The set and costumes are terrible and just...WHAT EVEN?
takemetotexas 1 year ago
I actually this Sweeney insanely sexy! his intensity!
TheBohemianTenor 1 year ago 3
@TheBohemianTenor Ya Michael Cerveris is the best! He is just awesome to see live, and he is actually really nice in person!
VegetarianDancer 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
God, how I hate Patti Lupone
OneEyedEmmy 2 years ago
Ditto!!!
pluper222 2 years ago
I thought the movie had enough comedy, even though it was subtler than the play. My friend and I were cracking up when the corpses were being dropped on their heads, (come on, they bounced!) but nobody else in the theater was really laughing, so maybe you have to already know the musical to really feel the humor from the movie.. XD;
GuacamoleKun 2 years ago
this is my least favorite incarnation of Sweeney Todd...
phoenixrage1 2 years ago
I agree, John Doyle's concept was good (I saw Company, same as this show with the actor's playing the music as well) but I would rather see a traditional revival, but with a different concept than the original (like the Chicago revival vs. the 75' OBC)
AlexCorpRedux 2 years ago
One thing I think was lacking in the Tim Burton version was the comedic aspect of it all, When you really think of it the show is really humorous. And Helena should have had a stronger character development. Helena is so talented and could have utilized her comedic talents but Tim's was darker. I love both of them.
jocelyn0000 2 years ago 28
@jocelyn0000 yeah, alot of the dryness was left out of Burtons. Also, it was alot of people's first experience with the show, and all hey saw was the gore. I wish they wold have filmed this production for PBS or something.
evitaperon88 1 year ago 2
:O at 4:07 !!
randomerqueen 2 years ago 2
*aggrees*
NOW WHY WASNT THAT IN THE MOVIE?!?!?!?
why didnt we get the sweenett action that we needed?!
harrysfan101 2 years ago 3
Lol, my thoughts exactly. Mr. Burton, I'm looking at you!
randomerqueen 2 years ago
Comment removed
adamalbaugh7 2 years ago
Good god, is Michael Cerveris a ham.
VRNProductions 2 years ago
Anthony Hope isn't it?
KittenEars12 2 years ago
I have a question for you all. WHAT IS MRS. LOVETT'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS JUDGE TURPIN'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS BEADLE BAMFORD'S FIRST NAME? WHAT IS TOBY'S LAST NAME? The only people who's full names are mentioned are Benjamin Barker/Sweeney Todd, and Adolpho Pirelli/Daniel O'Higgins.
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago
Mrs. Nellie Lovett
Tobias Ragg
and idk about the others...
MRxWONDERland 2 years ago
it's irrelevant. knowing romeos last name doesn't make romeo and juliet less romantic...same wat as knowing these characters' last names doesn't make sweeny todd less tragic
Catacipige 2 years ago
Nellie Lovett. All I know of.
iElenaa 2 years ago
Mrs Lovett's first name is Nellie
PhantomCake 2 years ago
somewhere I heard Judge Turpin's first name is Johanis or something.
omgitskee 2 years ago
I actually think this version of the song is way better than on the CD. Basically b/c you can see the action and the audience is great. They react just the way they should. I have a feeling when my hometown theater group puts this on it's not going to go over well....I love it though! Patti Lupone is brilliant!
edotson1 2 years ago 2
It sound sooo much better on the CD. Plus, you have to listen to it a few times to appreciate it.
lexaphantic 2 years ago
Wait a second, WHO PLAYS SWEENEY AND LOVETT HERE?
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago
Michael Cerveris is Sweeney and Patti LuPone is Mrs. Lovett, :)
KattMinor 2 years ago
Michael Cerveris is Sweeney Todd and Patti LuPone is Mrs.Lovett
Moviessoundtracks 2 years ago
Patti LuPone and Michael Cerveris. My goodness, I love these two as Lovett and Sweeney!!!!!!!!!!!!
foreverjynxed 2 years ago
No matter what, LuPone is THE BEST LOVETT! PS: WHAT IS MRS. LOVETT'S FIRST NAME?
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago
though there is no canon considering her name, she's mostly called Nelly, but [according to Wikipedia :] her first name might as well be Marjorie, Maggie, Sarah, Shirley, Wilhemia or Claudetta...
You choose :)
Shchipljeljishchitj 2 years ago
but in the play and movie Mrs.Lovett calls herself Aunty Nellie maybe wiki is mistaken
thatnylesguy 2 years ago
Michael Cerveris and Patti LuPone.
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago 3
They don't sound so good... Patti can definitely do better. And Sweeny is uhm, really too soft..
Shchipljeljishchitj 2 years ago 3
the recording sucks too, so you i dont think u can judge it on that
pbrennen 2 years ago
I AGREE! Not that good
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago
I agree totally.
Ryuzaki40 2 years ago
4 some strange reason....i think that Patti let herself go....i mean...she "sang/acted/ok..looked" better back for the 2001 concert in San Francisco when she did Mrs. Lovett....... but still...i think Patti ROCKS!!!!!
rory1494 2 years ago
i think the reason for that is because the whole point of John Doyle's direction of the revival was for it to be stripped down and much more subtle, so i definetly understand, patti basically put the lock and key on her theatrical for this show. That is why I despise this revival. The way the show was done was amazing, and I think this version is much less so. IT WAS FINE THE WAY IT WAS, IF IT'S BROKEN, WHY FIX IT? sorry, that was me getting out my anger towards John Doyle...
UveBeenLuPwned123094 2 years ago
yea....i feel the exact same way...this musical was perfect the way it was no additions nor subtractions :D
rory1494 2 years ago 2
Uh, first of all, Stephen Sondheim himself approved this production. He saw it in England and pushed to have it moved to NYC. He said that it was the ONLY production that found frightening.
Second of all, it makes me crazy to read that things were "FINE THE WAY IT WAS..." jeez, theatre artists actually enjoy finding new and appropriate ways of doing older shows.
By putting "the lock and key" on Patti Lupone she actually was forced to find a new interpretation of the role.
RichBiev 2 years ago
calm down buddy. it's called my opinion...ever heard of it?
UveBeenLuPwned123094 2 years ago
hey, it's only my opinion!
RichBiev 2 years ago 2
Am I the only one thinking "Uncle Fester"?
OlderMoi 2 years ago 39
@OlderMoi Actually....Lurch.
UberCathal 1 year ago
I love this interpretation of the piece. Really great performances. I wish I could have seen this production myself!
Gnerdgal 2 years ago
I saw this production... it was amazing. They were great together.
carly3592 3 years ago
Patti is quite good, but I can't get around Mr. Cerveris here. There's something not there - but I'm sure if I saw the entire performance, my thoughts would be far more concrete. Perhaps it's his vocal work - which has been excellent before (i.e. 'Hedwig', 'Tommy'), but here seems to be a bit off - though, it's lovely ... bleh. I'm all sorts of conflicted.
aidenkaramanyan 3 years ago
he brings something creepy that I quite like
noahsdad61 3 years ago
Don't get me wrong but I believe he is a bit 'soft' to be Sweeney Todd... I like his baritone voice, quite suitable, so I believe it's the acting that makes me think that way.
Troublemaker1991 2 years ago
i don't understand the locksmith part, can someone please explain?
saphirexskies87 3 years ago
Locksmith doesn't rhyme with anything.
If you notice he comes with replies that rhyme with the job name she names.
rachelb77 3 years ago 4
hahahaha gotcha, thanks :)
saphirexskies87 3 years ago
This cast is the one that made me really get into Sweeney Todd, I still hate what they did to the musical in the movie. They cut out half of the songs and half of the lyrics. Thanks for the clip, this is my favorite song.
Melstrife 3 years ago 2
AMEN! Thank you echoing my opinion! I have gotten into so many arguments over Burton/Depp's movie as a tremendous let-down. That movie should have been better cast and not one piece of music omitted! What was Sondheim thinking?! He cut the MAIN THEME of the show out! It's like watching JAWS without the shark's music! Take care!
JoeVialFilms 3 years ago
Sondheim said it wouldn't fit in, and agreed it was better off without it. It's only a let down to you elitist broadway fans, get over yourselves, please. Open your mind, and welcome changes. You can't make a movie exactly the same as the play, you know how ridiculous that would be?
StopPETA 3 years ago
I don't know who you are and frankly nor do I wish to. You call me an elitist without knowing me personally. I am deeply offended by your comment, when I was just expressing my own opinion. Perhaps you should look at yourself and see if you're perched on your own high horse.
JoeVialFilms 3 years ago
They didn't cut it. It's there. The opening credits are an instrumental version of it.
Thnikkafan 3 years ago
Exactly, it's an instrumental - NOT the song. A song requires lyrics being sung. NO lyrics were sung. Thus, they cut the song. I happened to enjoy the instrumental of The Ballad of Sweeney Todd. I just wish they kept the song IN the film... among other things. Again, my opinion... Peace.
JoeVialFilms 3 years ago
Better cast?! Depp and Bonham Carter were amazing. They're not singers but I think they did pretty well. And Sondheim approved them as well.
I understand how fans of the theatrical version were let down by the movie. And I know it was darker and not as comical. But you have to admit, for it JUST being a musical movie it was good!
Personally I like the movie. It might have been because I saw it first. But still...
I don't mind the Lansbury (as Lovett) version either though.
Stargatecrazy 2 years ago 4
I agree I love the movie because I saw it first and the other verison are good
EvilDeadFan1990 2 years ago
If you judge them apart ,yes the movie is good, but if you judge the movie with the musical in mind, its utter garbage
BlackValleyRequiem 2 years ago
Except they didn't cut HALF of the songs. It was way less than that. They were pretty faithful to the play. Most movies that were plays don't follow the same story. I don't really understand how anybody can hate the movie. Maybe not care for it, but that's about it.
StopPETA 3 years ago
Sweeney Todd is actually a black comedy play, but they only made it dark, that takes away the play all together. So when they took away the funny parts that made me really love the play, it made me rethink it. Believe me I love Tim Burton's work, but this he could have done so much better on. I respect your opinion and I'm glad you liked the movie.
Melstrife 3 years ago 3
Thank you. You're so right. Take care...
JoeVialFilms 3 years ago
And my mind is open to change, so long as the change aids the telling of the story. Jim Henson's "Little Shop of Horrors" was superb, even though they cut songs, added a new one and changed the ending. I felt it worked. I did not care for what Burton/Sondheim did to in their adaptation. Period.
JoeVialFilms 3 years ago
Jim Henson did not do the film of "Little Shop"--it was Frank Oz. The changes to the film of "Sweeney" did not harm the story telling. The entire plot is still there. Remember folks, they were making a film. Not filming a Bway show.
RichBiev 2 years ago
Forgive me, yes, you're right. Frank Oz directed the Little Shop adaptation. Thank you for the correction!
JoeVialFilms 2 years ago
This production was set out to be a love it or hate it version. Having actually worked on this production, and knowing all of the ins and outs . . its actually quite genius. It is a reinvention. In fact Sondheim originally conceieved Sweeney as simple stage piece. Harold Prince scaled it up for the Hearn Lansbury Production. If you are smart enough to catch it, there is a complexity to this production that rides right beneath the surface.
ravinbubba 3 years ago
its funny but Angelas and George hearns its way better but i still love Patti as well.
operastar1994 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
this is simply horrible.
CynicalSavior 3 years ago
I love Michael's expression at 48 seconds. XD!
Elaizzle 3 years ago
And to add to that, at 4:10 they're playing "grab ass" Lol. These two are HILARIOUSSSSS.
Elaizzle 3 years ago
Michael Cerveris and Patti Lupone are both VERY talented, but Doyle's 'nouveau'-style of directing this is terrible, it ruined the show. The actors with intruments and minimal set and props worked well with "Company", but it looked ridiculous with a show like "Sweeney Todd".
Take my advice: Watch the 1982 George Hearn and Angela Lansbury DVD (also on Youtube), it's much better.
AtLastOnTheGround 3 years ago
Excellent 'take'. Right on target.
shrubbmeister 3 years ago
Although Angela and George are my absolute favorites I absolutely adore the chemistry betwen these two! :D They're awesome the way they naturally fall into the roles, joking around about such a morbid thought the way Todd and Lovett are meant to. Love it!
Mashenka89 3 years ago
This is just awful. If you enjoyed this, then it's CLEAR you haven't seen George Hearn and Angela Lansbury. They ARE Sweeney and Lovett. This is CRAP.
JSanzLesMis421 3 years ago
i like this uncle fester as sweeney. :p
Numaltar 3 years ago
Is..Is someone farting at 6:08?
AssignedProductions 3 years ago
I saw this last night at Rockford Coronado and it was amazing!
digitaldevice 3 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
she sounds like one as well
jtjpickle 3 years ago
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She looks like a man with that wig... :(
senorlucien 3 years ago
is she patti lupone??
gmlizafan 3 years ago
yea thts patti lupone :]
x3MamaRose 3 years ago
this is probably one of the best revivals ever done on broadway!!! i saw it in Atlanta and it was absolutely amazing!!! and it could have only been better in NY!!!
sonofplunder69 3 years ago
I would agree that is a really good revival, but I enjoyed the Company revival with Raul Esparza more. I also think that the cast playing the instruments meshed better in Company than in this show.
5stringriot 3 years ago
what's the blood like in this production? I cant find anything.
if i knew about sweeney todd a few years ago i would have begged to go to America to see this. shame it never came to Australia...
cooldude2040 3 years ago
Well, when Sweeney kills someone, Mrs. Lovett walks downstage and pours some blood from a bucket into another one. The only exception to that is when Sweeney kills Mrs. Lovett. When that happens it's Lucy who pours the blood.
TifaAllTehWay 3 years ago 2
we are doing this musical at my school! i unfortunately got no part in it ( :[ ), but i cant wait to see it!
sorcerersinger24601 3 years ago
is this patti lapon or whateber her name is?
ummff 3 years ago
yea thts Patti LuPone
x3MamaRose 3 years ago
yeah its Patti LuPone but dont say "whatever her name is"
shes broadway royalty treat her with somerespect
tatyrules12 3 years ago 17
@tatyrules12 it's a shame she's shit then isn't it?
uknowwho889 1 year ago
i really like this video because the audience is so responsive and it really makes it more entertaining somehow. maybe because performers get so much more energy when the audience responds well
spinnersend517 3 years ago 4
WHY ARE THE COSTUMES ALL SO MODERN!!!!!!!???? SOMEONE BLOODY EXPLAIN?????? (Sorry about the pun)
musicaldudepeter 3 years ago 2
ok, the revival, and this is my interpretation, is sort of in an asylum where some THINK they are in the story, while others are just playing along. It opens with the one of the chorus having his straight jacket undone, Pirelli looks more like a doctor and she is sometimes following and observing (maybe not in this clip tho) interactions are often made without contact or looking at each other (old beggar at beginning of show) So it could be taking place today this version
Asylum07MasterMadman 3 years ago
The revival focused on the story over the visuals. It was riveting and brilliant.
inlovewithJLT 3 years ago
its good that sweeney todd is actually english for once not american!!!
cazzathedevil 3 years ago
Here here!
musicaldudepeter 3 years ago
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the clothes are all wrong :(
kyrastube 3 years ago
no i actually like the leather jacket on Sweeney! SO bad-ass!
sdrhead 3 years ago
is there a dvd to this???
eponlindsey 3 years ago
What happened to Patty since George? It seems that she did weird stuff with her hair etc. And is she fatter here? Or am I dreaming?
phantomsmask78 3 years ago
The weird thing she did with her hair is a wig. And either she gained weight or, of course, the costuming is different in the in concert versions and the revival and it just makes her look like she's gained weight.
Marialuvr01 3 years ago
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I hate this Mrs. Lovett. She doesn't know how to sing, she doesn't move... she bores me.
poetaviolinista 3 years ago
Funny, considering she's been nominated for several TONYSS, has won several, and was nominated for this particular role....
Theater isn't all about big dances and perfect singing. Look up the word "subtlety"; less is more the majority of the time.
RowsofSimarron 3 years ago 3
There's another word I like to hear: subjectivity. I know theater isn't about big dances or perfect singing, I'm not asking for a big dance by her, I just want to see her be in the role, live it.
I saw the concert version, with George as Sweeney and LuPone as Lovett and she performs a lot better there. Funny, seeing as I'd expect less flair in a concert than in a theater stage.
Perhaps saying she can't sing was a bit much, but I still stand by the rest. This performance is boring for me.
poetaviolinista 3 years ago 3
PERHAOS... she is one of the most revered voices in theater
Asylum07MasterMadman 3 years ago
But then again Angela Lansbury WON a Tony award for her performance, which was about as hammy and obvious as possible!
67hob 3 years ago
Too funny ;) I wish more of this song had been kept in the most recent version of the musical (the movie with Depp and Bonham-Carter) but it probably would've been deemed 'too long'...would've loved to see Helena sing the part about 'with or without his privates?" heh--that would've been hysterical in theatres! ;)
Halicorn 3 years ago 2
geez this is a really good audience. this song is funny but not THAT funny...
Eponine05 3 years ago
LOL, i sooo agree.
hurricanetina 3 years ago
geez this is good. this song is funny, but not THAT funny...
Eponine05 3 years ago
who can explain me why when mrs lovett say locksmith everybody laugh? i cant understand that part
SutamaProductions 3 years ago
nothing rhymes with locksmith
WizardWalk 3 years ago 3
OH!
And as for Lauren Molina, she's my favorite Johanna along with Lisa Vroman.
Johanna's my favorite character, I'd love to play her, but Lauren's waaay better than meee :P
She kicks my ass at cello too, I tried playing it in 6th grade and even my teacher said I was awful :S
So Lauren Molina rocks too xD
bwaybabydezz 3 years ago
Patti's my favorite Lovett and Micheal's my second Sweeney after George Hearn. I listen to the revival cast CD CONSTANTLY and they sound just as good here :]
KUUUUDOOOOS to whoever taped this, fantastic quality.
I love Micheal's egg head :D
bwaybabydezz 3 years ago
i found hearn a bit to jolly, of course nothing will ever compare to carlou
Asylum07MasterMadman 3 years ago
i love how patti and michael act like bffs in this
zachxhott64 3 years ago 3
Well somewhere in the process of working together they actually did become bffs! lol
sdrhead 3 years ago
Was there a DVD produced or any professional recording going to be produced of this production of Sweeney, like the Company one.
musicaldudepeter 3 years ago
there might have been. i know there was one produced of the angela lansbery and george hearne one and one of the concert. try looking on amazon.
JohannaToddBarker 3 years ago
No, had there been one it would have already been released. It was, though, filmed to be placed in the Lincoln Center Theatre Archives, like most musicals from the 70s on.
misscleo3861 3 years ago
is there any possibilty of buying any kind of recording from this play? They are so amazing!
andziaszek 3 years ago 3
omg. she's amazing. why isn't she in every play ever made?!
wootyeah222 3 years ago
Sweeney Todd looks sooooooooo much better with hair.Why put him with a bald head?!!!
barnardoo98 3 years ago
Because... he's a great non-stopping barber :_)?
GardeniaMana 3 years ago
Yeah I know but he looks a lot cooler with hair every version of sweeney todd except this one has hair.
barnardoo98 3 years ago
maybe they wanted something abit different lol.. or maybe they loved michael's voie and wasnt bothered if he was bald or had a head of hair lol....if i was casting a part i wouldnt be bothered what was on the top of their head as long as they could sing and hit the right notes that would do me lol
BloodBrothersFan 3 years ago
Maybe the actor was bald.
oohcool 3 years ago
there is an old addage... NEVER TRUST A BALD BARBER
Asylum07MasterMadman 3 years ago
haha I think this song is even funnier here than in the movie and I love Helena but Patti is definitely better ...
ManiacWithAnAxe 3 years ago 2
omg, this song is so clever. i laugh every time
TangoMaureen07 3 years ago
love you guys!
andziaszek 3 years ago
i love this show so much
elphabasfriend001 3 years ago
Angela Lansbury, while being the original were not great in terms of vocal performances.
Patti Lupone gives Mrs. Lovett a more realistic persona, and the saucy and sinister tendencies work incredibly well with the character. Plus she's funnier!
KittenEars12 3 years ago 5
can u post the death of mrs. lovett?
elphabasfriend001 3 years ago 3
I think that Patti LuPone and Helena Bonham Carter are the BEST Mrs.Lovett xD
thanks 4 posting this :D
iiinicka 3 years ago 2
boo you. lupone rocks, carter... not so much. LANSBURY is the best.
GoslingT 3 years ago
My personal fave Mrs. Lovett is probably, well I'd say it's a tie between Lansbury and Judy Kaye!
sdrhead 3 years ago
I think Helena had an EXCELLENT voice for the role, but she didn't quite portray Mrs. Lovett like the nutty kind of woman she was meant to be. But that's just my opinion.
sdrhead 3 years ago
Excellent voice? I thought Helen'a voice was annoying. But that's just my opinion. But, I did love her characterization! She was sort of a cute Ms. Lovett.
wrightza 3 years ago 2
I agree. I thought HBC's voice was extremely weak. Mrs. Lovett needs to have a brassy singing voice. I prefer Lupone by a pretty wide margin to any other Mrs. Lovett, although I did like HBC's acting, at the very least.
Staev 3 years ago 3
Helena ≠ Lansbury Lansbury be made of awesome acting, fun, and pancakes
Asylum07MasterMadman 3 years ago
I never knew she was made of pancakes!
I thought something was odd about her... but in a good way.
cartmanclone515 3 years ago
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Where are Sweeney's suspenders?
SirCoughsalot 3 years ago
her timing is so perfect on "Good you got it"
OSCEG 3 years ago 5
I think people are hard on Cerveris and Lupone about this revival because they both had new, unique interpretations of the characters. To expect Patti to do Lovett the same way as Lansbury is just mad; they're two different women, and both great actors. Naturally they're going to play it differently. The same thing goes for Michael with Cariou and Hearn. Personally, I thought they both gave brilliant performances, and they're my favorite Todd and Lovett to date.
omgthetoastisburning 3 years ago 5
I agree with you. But still Hearn and Lansbury are my favorites.
TRERRRE 3 years ago 2
personally,i like lupone best.lupone does movements that completely work with the character and action.i love everything she does.she's small when she needs & big when she needs.i still think carter does an amazing job.she's more subtle and i like it. She's good with taking the dialogue and making it her own.also, when i think Mrs. lovett,she's physically my interpretation. Lansbury was good, and i liked some of hers, but she was too big at times and it made me cringe.&sorry, but i liked johnny.
wootyeah222 3 years ago
although the design is not exactly to my taste, I do think that it is such a good idea cos the lack of set and extreme costumes really brings out the humour and wit in the lyrics.
Pretty damn awesome!
MasterIsh91 3 years ago
I like this cast, but my favourite Mrs. Lovett has got to be Judy Kaye. Also, my favourite Tobias is Edmund Bagnell. EVERYBODY IS SO DAMN TALENTED!!!
RoZieeEe 3 years ago
I saw them last night, damn it was good. I got a few pics. with Edmund after the show =) and I gave money to the foundation. He's my favorite Toby to date.
HiddenBeauty 3 years ago
my favourite Mrs Lovett and my second favourite Sweeney, great!
TheSoulMan8 3 years ago
I adore the acting, voices and motions of the characters in the revival, but the costumes, set and the fact that the non-active characters play instruments on the sides bothers me. Mrs. LuPone and Mr. Cerevis play so well off each other, but they look way out of the time period. The revival cast is my favorite recording for the voices.
sailorknightwing 3 years ago
Did Michael forget his line in 4:38? It sounded like he said "Something....SOMETHING..." & i see he is cracking up from the mistake
mgrchip 3 years ago
no he says something subtler to rhyme with butler
TheSoulMan8 3 years ago
I thought he said 'Sutler' or something
mgrchip 3 years ago