With the highly anticipated cinema release of ‘Into the Woods’ on Friday, we take a look at where you can see Sondheim on stage in London.
Assassins, Menier Chocolate Factory, 21st November – 7th March 2015
One of Sondheim’s lesser known musicals written in 1990, he provides the music and lyrics for this darkly wonderful production that tells the stories of 13 assassination attempts against the Presidents of the United States. Jamie Lloyd (currently directing The Ruling Class) directs a sensational cast including Aaron Tveit, Catherine Tate and Simon Lipkin in this jump-tastic gem of a production set to make your January go with a bang.
Tickets are sadly sold out but check the Menier Chocolate Factory for returns.
Sweeney Todd, London Coliseum, 30th March – 12th April 2015
Sondheim’s most infamous musical about the demon barber of Fleet Street, Mr Todd. He is set on seeking revenge for his exile and losing his wife to the dishonourable Judge Turpin. He rents the upstairs room of Mrs Lovett’s failing pie shop and, in practice, provides the meat for her pies by cutting throats of unsuspecting victims.
Emma Thompson and Bryn Terfel are set to reprise their roles from their sell out show at New York’s Lincoln Centre at the London Coliseum in March for a very limited run. This is not to be missed.
Sweeney Todd tickets available here
Gypsy, Savoy Theatre, 28th March – July 2015
The most exciting theatrical event of the year has been announced and tickets are selling very fast for Gypsy. This heart-warming, big brassy band spectacular sees Jonathan Kent reunite with Imelda Staunton who plays legendary Momma Rose in this swell show based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee. Sondheim provides the infectious lyrics to what is considered (by many) to be one of the greatest Broadway musicals and you can see it at The Savoy this spring.
The sell-out run in Chichester was my absolute favourite show of 2014, so be sure to grab your tickets before they sell out, you won’t regret it!
Rebecca Usher
@rebeccausher