Vermont Repertory Theatre’s ‘Sweeney Todd’ includes local cast members
February 18, 2025 | By Waterbury Roundabout
Chloë Fidler as Mrs. Lovett and Kyle Ferguson as the eponymous barber star in Vermont Repertory Theatre’s production of 'Sweeney Todd,' Feb.28-March 7 in Burlington. Courtesy photo
Vermont Repertory Theatre steps back to Victorian London to present some delightfully theatrical horrors in “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” Feb. 28-March 7 at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center in Burlington.
“Sweeney Todd” tells the tale of the infamous “demon barber” of Fleet Street, a man driven by vengeance and madness. The story follows Todd as he returns to the foggy streets of London after being wrongfully exiled, only to discover the tragic fate that befell his wife and daughter. With the help of a pie-maker with cannibalistic tendencies, Todd embarks on a dark and bloody journey that blends macabre humor with exquisite musicality in Stephen Sondheim’s 1979 musical thriller.
“We're excited to bring this extraordinary work to life in such a close and personal setting,” Fidler said. “With a nine-piece live orchestra and outstanding performances, it's going to be quite a theatrical event."
The show is directed by Michael Fidler of Williston, whose credits include London’s West End professional theater and the Edinburgh Festival. The show’s nine-piece orchestra is led by Ashley O’Brien of Burlington.
Matthew Winston of Waterbury plays the dreadful Judge Turpin in 'Sweeney Todd,' on stage Feb.28-March 7 at Main Street Landing in Burlington. Courtesy photo
The cast includes Matthew Winston of Waterbury as Judge Turpin, Hannah Normandeau of Waterbury Center, and Aleah Papes of Richmond in the ensemble.
Kyle Ferguson of Burlington stars as the eponymous barber, with Chloë Fidler of Williston as the baker, Mrs. Lovett. Other Burlington cast members include Zach Stark as Anthony Hope, Rachel Weinfeld as Johanna, and Eamon Lynch as Tobias. From Colchester are Michael Godsey as the Beadle, Ian Ferris as Pirelli, and George Conklin in the ensemble. Kristen Bures of South Burlington plays the Beggar Woman. The ensemble is rounded out by AJ Banach of Fairfax and Kylie Halpin of Williston.
“Sweeney Todd” is the fifth production of Vermont Repertory Theatre, which was founded in March 2023 by Michael Fidler and Connor Kendall.
Seating will be divided between cabaret tables and traditional raked seating, giving audience members the opportunity to be up close in the “blood zone,” or have a safer experience further back.
“It’s going to be quite an experience,” Fidler said. “Blood and gore will be flying!”
Trigger warnings include blood, dismemberment, sexual violence, cannibalism, gunshots and immolation. The show is recommended for ages 18+, and no entry will be permitted for those under 13.
“Sweeney Todd” runs for eight performances from Feb. 28 to March 7 in the Black Box Theatre of Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, 60 Lake St., Burlington. Tickets: $25 for students, $30 for seniors, $35 general admission. Find more information and purchase tickets online here.