Swing your razors high, Sweeney! March 24, 2024, marked a special tradition in Peddie’s wide array of student events, as it was the third and last Broadway trip of the year. Peddie’s Broadway trips are inarguably special, as they allow students the opportunity to visit New York for a day and attend popular shows, encouraging an interest in theater and giving students a chance to sight-see and shop.
Sweeney Todd is a 1979 musical with musical/lyrics by Stephen Sondheim that tells the tale of a murderous barber, Sweeney Todd, and his vengeful mission to ruin those who tore apart his family. He is accompanied by Mrs. Lovett, who assists him in his schemes while running her meat pie shop underneath his parlor. The story also follows Sweeney’s lost daughter Johanna and her escape from the cruel Judge Turpin with the help of Anthony Hope, a young sailor enamored by her beauty. The harrowing tale itself ends disturbingly morose, providing the audience with the clear and unfortunate consequences of savage revenge. Students were especially excited to witness this musical due to its final performance being May 5th, only a month and a half later, as well as popular Broadway performers Aaron Tveit and Sutton Foster acting as the current stars.
After leaving Peddie in the early morning, students enjoyed a brief bus trip with their friends, with many studying and sleeping on the way. After reaching New York, many were overjoyed to find that they had enough time to explore the area, with most purchasing the excellent street food that was offered. Afterward, students walked to the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre to finally watch the dark, twisted show. Sweeney Todd absolutely amazed students, who were impressed by the cast’s operatic vocals, complicated set, and detailed costumes.
Though the show will complete its run and students have long since returned to school, many still fondly remember their experience viewing it live and are looking forward to the next phenomenal show!