Dramatic Art Union Stages Sweeney Todd Performance
The much-anticipated musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is set to make its debut at Holy Cross High School's Prior Performing Arts Centre in December 2025. Tickets for this gripping production are now available for purchase on the school's website, with special discounts for the Holy Cross community.
Sweeney Todd, a harrowing and jarring tale of a bloodthirsty barber seeking revenge, is a musical by Stephen Sondheim. The musical has remained relevant over the years due to its exploration of enduring themes such as justice, revenge, societal decay, and the darker aspects of human nature. This is conveyed through a richly dramatic score and sharp wit that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.
In this adaptation, Jimmy Duffy, a sophomore, takes on the lead role of Sweeney Todd. The production is directed by Meaghan Deiter, who aims to convey a hauntingly poignant message while still providing a fresh take. Deiter has previously directed Oklahoma! and Company at the PAC.
The Holy Cross High School production promises to be a unique interpretation of the classic musical. While specific differences from professional productions are not detailed, the school's version might focus more on student participation and educational experience, likely with scaled technical elements. This could make for a more localized and student-driven approach compared to larger, professional productions.
The Prior Performing Arts Centre also has a schedule of events that includes performances of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street and William Shakespeare's Cymbeline between October 31st and November 10th. Cymbeline, described as a fairy tale about an ancient king, offers a stark contrast to the dark and suspenseful Sweeney Todd.
In addition to Sweeney Todd, Tim St. John '26 wrote a reflection titled "I Attended the Tale Four Times: A Reflection of My Time on Fleet Street" about his experiences with the musical. Meanwhile, Kelly Gallagher '22 wrote an article titled "HC Professor's Screenplay Presented at Poe Fest in Baltimore" about the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival, which is commemorating Poe's works during October.
The cast and crew of Sweeney Todd includes 26 students, 15 in the orchestra, and 12 students running technical aspects. The cast and crew have reportedly had a joyful and kind experience working on the production. Daniel Rentel plays Judge Turpin in the musical, with Jimmy Duffy, a sophomore, starring as the demon barber.
Don't miss this opportunity to witness the biggest production Holy Cross has had in the Luth so far. Get your tickets for Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street today!
- The much-anticipated musical production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Holy Cross High School's Prior Performing Arts Centre not only features the news-worthy adaptation of the classic musical, but also offers a traditional exploration of enduring themes through the arts.
- Aspiring student actress Meaghan Deiter, who has previously directed Oklahoma! and Company at the PAC, will be the director of this production, bringing a unique community-centered approach to the dark and suspenseful tale.
- In addition to hosting Sweeney Todd and the classic Shakespearean play Cymbeline, the Prior Performing Arts Centre also offers a lineup of events, including educational news articles and student-written reflections on arts-related topics.
- The highly anticipated Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street production is more than just an entertainment event; it's a collaborative community effort featuring a cast and crew of 53 dedicated students who share a passion for the arts.
