Sweeney Todd in Concert (DVD, 2002)

So many have seen the movie, but few have seen the concert with Patti Lupone and George Hearn. Lupone has played Mrs. Lovett in several productions of Sweeney Todd, and she is amazing!!! George Hearn will send chills down your spine. If you liked the recent Hollywood adaption, you will love this concert with some of the best performers of this musical phenomenon

Produced originally as a celebratory 3-nights-only concert, Sondheim himself liked the staging of it so much that he specifically requested that they film it. It is a concert with staging, not a full-out play, and as such, the set is non-existant, (which means things like the barber chair and the stove have to be pantomimed) the props are spare, the costumes are modernized, but the music is beautiful.

The serious fan will enjoy this in their collection. George Hearn reprises the role of Sweeney, and Patti Lupone is a charming Mrs Lovett. The beautiful orchestra and chorus showcases the beauty of Sondheim's songs, and there are tidbits that never made it into the 1982 film, like Judge Turpin's Mea Culpa song, and an extended lullaby for the beggar woman. Also included is a nice documentary with quick interviews with most of the cast and crew.

However, I think the casual or new fans would do well to start with the 1982 film instead.

I saw this musical on stage several years ago and was quite excited to see the movie. While online looking up items about the film, I came across a reference to this DVD. I found it on ebay and bought it right away. It's a great show and a nice companion to the Tim Burton/ Johnny Depp film