Great Lakes Theater Unveils Steampunk Vision of Sweeney Todd

Great Lakes Theater presents a reimagined version of Sweeney Todd at the Hanna Theatre in Cleveland.

The production runs through November 8, 2026. Director Victoria Bussert sets the story in a steampunk interpretation of London. This design choice moves away from traditional historical settings. The aesthetic features steam-powered engineering and Victorian elegance. This visual style aligns with the musical’s themes of industrialization and human conflict.

Designer Trad A Burns created the set using massive cogs and riveted metal. The stage features a raised playing space with pipe-laden filigree. Burns also handles the lighting, which uses theatrical fog to create a gritty atmosphere. Costume designer Tesia Dugan Benson outfitted the cast in leather, goggles, and corsets. These costumes include fishnets, straps, and buckles to enhance the industrial look.

Mark Bedard stars as Sweeney Todd. He appears with a shaved head, a departure from previous film adaptations. This choice emphasizes a clean-cut brutality in his performance. Jillian Kates plays Mrs. Lovett with explosive red curls. Her portrayal of the baker is animated and eccentric. The two actors demonstrate strong chemistry in their scenes together. Their dynamic is particularly evident in the song A Little Priest.

Matthew Wright portrays Judge Turpin. His character schemes to keep Johanna, played by Ana Lauren Rodriguez, as his ward. Ethan Flanagan plays Anthony, the sailor who returns to London. Rodriguez and Flanagan perform the romantic storyline with skill. Sean Patrick Doyle plays the rival barber Adolfo Pirelli. His performance adds humor to the narrative. Tate Cinti plays Tobias Ragg, Pirelli’s assistant.

Jessie Cope Miller performs as the Beggar Woman. Ricky Moyer plays the Beadle, a servant to Judge Turpin. The ensemble includes a seven-piece orchestra. Music director Matthew Webb leads the group. The cast performs Stephen Sondheim’s score with precision. The show includes dark humor and melodrama. The story follows Benjamin Barker, who returns to London after exile. He seeks revenge on Judge Turpin, who wronged his family. Mrs. Lovett partners with Todd to boost her meat pie business using the victims.

Tickets for the production are available at the Hanna Theatre. The venue is located at 2067 E 14th St in Cleveland. Prices range from $17 to $115. Interested viewers can visit www.greatlakestheater.org for details. They can also call (216) 241-6000 to purchase seats. The show offers a unique visual interpretation of the classic musical. The creative team integrates set, costume, and sound design elements. These components support the steampunk narrative. The production aims to engage audiences with its distinct artistic vision.