This fall is a walk down memory lane for me. 

First, I’m revisiting SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET. I was fortunate to direct our last production in 2011: one with a very traditional approach with the spinning pie shop unit, and a small yet effective ensemble. 

This time around the show is very different, with a stationary set and a large ensemble, so I was inspired to rethink my staging and approach the piece with fresh eyes. We are very lucky to have a solid group of principal players led by Jason Lawergren and Devon Yates - both of whom are making a triumphant return to the Playhouse stage - and an outstanding ensemble of 26 top-notch singers; when they sing the first “lift your razor high,” it will give you chills.

SWEENEY TODD is nothing without a great orchestra, and our volunteer players under the direction of Bruce Yates do not disappoint. Sondheim’s music is incredibly difficult to play, and we’re so lucky to have the talented musicians to master it! 

Oh - and the blood flow is great as well. 

Tickets are flying off the shelf, so if you haven’t made your reservation you might want to call soon - PLUS by popular demand we've just added TWO MORE SHOWS, Friday, November 1st at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 3rd at 2 p.m. Get your tickets now! 

Then I went even further down memory lane this week as we started rehearsals for Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST; it’s been twenty years since the Playhouse last presented this show! I was fortunate to choreograph and costume the show last time, along with playing Lumiere. Many of you have asked - and no, I will not be reprising the role. I have turned those candlesticks over to Jared Lossie, who is going to be wonderful in the role. 

We are all so very excited to take this journey along with a very talented cast of 33 actors. Among them are some Playhouse favorites and a number of new performers, which is always exciting to see. I’m sure that we are going to be delivering the kind of holiday magic you expect from the team at the Playhouse. 

Tickets go on sale to the public on Tuesday, November 5th, and if you aren’t already a season ticket holder, you’ll want to call early and reserve your seats! 

Finally, don’t forget our Youtheatre production of TUCK EVERLASTING (TYA) opening on November 15th (and tickets go on sale to the public on October 22).

There are lots of good reasons to see you at the Playhouse this fall! 

Richard Davis
Artistic Director

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