The production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street by Mask and Bauble Dramatic Society at Georgetown University is one that left a big impression on viewers — even with the use of such a small space. Based on the book by Hugh Wheeler, adapted into a play by Christopher Bond, and transformed into a musical by the legendary Stephen Sondheim, this university’s performance is one that is unforgettable. The Poulton Hall at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, opened its doors on April 1 at 8 pm for a press viewing of the adaptation of the timeless musical directed by Noah Vinogradov (SFS ’25). Just like the day of the performance, one would be a fool to underestimate the talent and skills of the students who were a part of this production.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a dark, complex musical that follows the tormented Benjamin Barker, who returns to London under the alias Sweeney Todd, seeking revenge against the corrupt Judge Turpin who sent him away in order to steal his wife. With the help of the manipulative pie shop owner, Mrs. Lovett, Todd embarks on a brutal campaign of murder — using his barbering skills to slit the throats of his unsuspecting victims. Set in 19th-century London, the musical also includes a story of forbidden love between Todd’s daughter, Johanna, and the sailor Anthony Hope.
The performance opened with “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd,” an ensemble number that introduced the audience to the intricate choreography and powerful vocals that would define the rest of the evening. There’s also nothing to chop up about the cast’s acting chops. Each actor’s portrayal of their character was spot on. The lead role of Sweeney Todd was portrayed by Massimo D’Onofrio (CAS ’28), who brought an intense depth to the character. D’Onofrio’s portrayal of Todd was a perfect balance of rage, grief, and madness. His rendition of “Epiphany,” a pivotal number in the show, was particularly impressive as he shifted through a range of emotions — from frustration and anger to sorrow and dark joy — all while maintaining a strong vocal performance.
Daisy Casemore (CAS ’26) played the role of Mrs. Lovett, and her performance brought much-needed comic relief to the otherwise dark and intense production. Casemore’s animated acting and singing infused the character with a manic energy that was both endearing and unsettling. Her over-the-top bursts of excitement were masterfully executed, showing the madness creeping into her character as the story unfolded. Another standout performance came from Jack Markowitz (CAS ’27) as Adolfo Pirelli. Markowitz’s portrayal was flamboyant and full of life. His ability to switch between an Italian and Irish accent was flawless, showcasing his range as an actor and leaving an impression reminiscent of Sacha Baron Cohen’s portrayal of the same character in the 2007 film adaptation. Stratton Rebish (CAS ’28) portrayed Tobias Ragg, and his performance was particularly moving. Rebish captured the innocence and naivety of the character before his tragic descent into madness. The emotional range Rebish brought to Tobias’s transformation was a testament to his acting skill — eliciting sympathy and heartbreak from the audience as his character’s vulnerability became increasingly apparent.
The chemistry between Johanna, played by Hannah Beil (CAS ’28), and Anthony, portrayed by Nate Findlay (CAS ’27), was another highlight of the production. The pair brought a genuine warmth to their love story, with subtle yet powerful moments that demonstrated their deep connection. Beil’s portrayal of Johanna was particularly captivating, especially during her song “Green Finch and Linnet Bird,” where her ethereal voice left the audience in awe. Her ability to hit high notes with such precision and beauty further amplified the emotional stakes of her character’s plight. George Concannon (GSAS ’26) as Beadle Bamford and Jack Kealey (CAS ’25) as Judge Turpin both delivered outstanding performances — embodying the cruel and sinister nature of their respective characters. Concannon’s Beadle was heartless and menacing, while Kealey’s portrayal of Judge Turpin was equally chilling, adding layers of moral corruption to the role.
Again, there is much emphasis to be put on the impressive usage of Stage III’s very intimate space at Poulton Hall. The costumes and makeup also added a great deal to the production. Each character’s appearance was thoughtfully designed, from the disheveled look of Todd to the colorful flamboyance of Pirelli, capturing the essence of their personalities. Additionally, the background actors were essential in creating the world of the play, and their singing and acting in moments such as “God, That’s Good!” were nothing short of impressive.
Overall, this performance of Sweeney Todd was an unforgettable experience, with every element, from the acting and singing to the technical aspects, contributing to a memorable and emotionally charged production. It was a performance that not only entertained but also moved the audience, earning a well-deserved standing ovation.
Running Time: Approximately three hours, plus a 10-minute intermission.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street plays for the public Thursday, April 3, through Sunday, April 6, 2025; Tuesday, April 8; and Thursday, April 10, through Friday, April 11, presented by Mask and Bauble Dramatic Society performing at Georgetown University in Poulton Hall, Stage III, 1421 37th Street NW, Washington, DC. Tickets (from free to $10) are currently sold out for all dates, but you can register for the waiting list online.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Book by Hugh Wheeler
Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Adapted from a play by Christopher Bond
DIRECTING STAFF
Director: Noah Vinogradov (SFS ’25)
Assistant Director: Rishu Nevatia (CAS ’27)
Producer: Grady McDonough (MSB ’26)
Assistant Producer: Elle Marinello (CAS ’28)
Stage Manager: Lily Marino (CAS ’26)
Assistant Stage Manager: Alexis Giaquinta (CAS ’28)
Assistant Stage Manager: Megan Lu (CAS ’28)
Assistant Stage Manager: Ruby Lillie (CAS ’27)
Technical Director: Brooke Bergin (CAS ’27)
Assistant Technical Director: Amelie Schulhof (CAS ’28)
Vocal Music Director: Ian Franza (CAS ’25)
Assistant Vocal Director: Molly Jenkins (CAS ’28)
Instrumental Music Director: Anna Holk (CAS ’27)
Assistant Instrumental Director: Claire McDowell (CAS ’27)
Choreographer: Kayla Jones (CAS ’25)
Assistant Choreographer: Charlotte Bonneau (CAS ’28)
Assistant Choreographer: Raquel Silva (CAS ’28)
CAST
Sweeney Todd: Massimo D’Onofrio (CAS ’27)
Mrs. Lovett: Daisy Casemore (‘26)
Beggar Woman: Ruth Abramovitz (CAS ’27)
Judge Turpin/Sweeney US: Jack Kealey (CAS ’25)
Anthony Hope: Nate Findlay (CAS ’27)
Johanna: Hannah Beil (CAS ’28)
Tobias Ragg: Stratton Rebish (CAS ’28)
Adolfo Pirelli: Jack Markowitz (CAS ’27)
Beadle Bamford: George Concannon (GSAS ’26)
Ensemble/Mrs. Lovett US: Emma Erdoes (SFS ’25)
Ensemble/Beggar Woman US: Chiara Volpi (SFS ’28)
Ensemble/Judge-Pirelli Swing: Daniel Tomas (SFS ’26)
Ensemble/Johanna-Tobias Swing: Delaney Devlin (SFS ’26)
Ensemble/Anthony US: Colin Wechsler (CAS ’26)
Ensemble/Beadle US: Julien Catalon (CAS ’28)
Ensemble: Adam Garrity (CAS ’25), Caroline Samoluk (CAS ’25), Kait
Delaney (CAS ’25)
PRODUCTION STAFF
Set Designer: Alec Hamblet (CAS ’27)
Lead Carpenter: Toby Shu (CAS ’28)
Set Dresser: Olivia Holmberg (CAS ’28)
Set Dresser: Mariela Cruz (SFS ’28)
Assistant Set Dresser: Claire Coleman (CAS ’26)
Scenic Artist: Charlotte Hibbert (CAS ’27)
Assistant Scenic Artist: Elle Marinello (CAS ’28)
Assistant Scenic Artist: Isabelle Darman (CAS
Assistant Scenic Artist: Anastasia Kelly (CAS ’26)
Lead Electrician: Cliff Stern (CAS ’26)
Lighting Designer: Mackenzie Pitsko (CAS ’28)
Assistant Lighting Designer: Ruby Lillie (CAS ’27)
Lights Mentor: Nick Romero (SFS ’25)
Sound Designer: Victoria Baioni (CAS ’27)
Assistant Sound Designer: Aidan Green (CAS ’27)
Assistant Sound Designer: Annie Flatt (CAS ’26)
Sound Mentor: Molly Kenney (CAS ’25)
Properties Designer: Patrick van Eyck (SFS ’28)
Properties Designer: Tommy Gaita (CAS ’26)
Assistant Properties Designer: Alexis Tarumianz (CAS ’26)
Costume Designer: Lainey Lyle (SFS ’27)
Assistant Costume Designer: Julia Wang (SFS ’27)
Assistant Costume Designer: Sophie Mayle (CAS ’27)
Assistant Costume Designer: Molly Meehan (CAS ’27)
Costumes Mentor: Miranda Fair (CAS ’25)
Costumes Crew: Callie Gelderman (SFS ’28)
Costumes Crew: Karina Han (CAS ’28)
Hair & Makeup Designer: Ariane Barth (SFS ’26)
Assistant Hair & Makeup: Jean Marte (CAS)
Assistant Hair & Makeup: Marin Napolitano (CAS ’28)
Hair & Makeup Crew: Alex Roberts (CAS ’28)
Hair & Makeup Crew: Daniel Chernyak (CAS ’28)
Publicity Director: Briana Sparacino (SFS ’25)
Assistant Publicity Director: Harry Tang (MSB ’25)
Assistant Publicity Director: Lucia McLaughlin (CAS ’25)
Graphic Designer: Anastasia Kelly (CAS ’26)
Dramaturg: Caroline Woodward (CAS ’27)
Dramaturg: Paulina Inglima (CAS ’27)
Assistant Dramaturg: Demetra Chudley (CAS ’28)
Cruise Director: Alex Roberts (CAS ’26)
Cruise Director: Kate Nonnenkamp (CAS ’27)
Assistant Cruise Director: Chloe Kim (CAS ’28)
PRODUCTION STAFF
Build Crew: Alex Wang (CAS ’25)
Build Crew: Amanda Bell (SFS ’28)
Build Crew: Antoinette Kersaint (CAS ’28)
Build Crew: Autumn Rain Nachman (CAS ’28)
Build Crew: Avelyn Bailey (SFS ’28)
Build Crew: Con Lane (CAS ’27)
Build Crew: Henry Ren (CAS ’26)
Build Crew: Jahana Shamdasani (CAS ’28)
Build Crew: James Kasrawi (SFS ’27)
Build Crew: Peter Sukstorf (SFS ’26)
Build Crew: Reilly Souther (CAS ’27)
BAND
Conductor: Anna Holk (CAS ’27)
Keyboard: Cynthia Gudaitis (SFS ’27)
Bass: Heather Begg (SFS ’28)
Percussion: Brian Weinberger (CAS ’25)
Flute: Katherine Chow (SFS ’28)
Flute (substitute): Caroline Thomas (CAS ’27)
Clarinet: Claire McDowell (CAS ’27)
Clarinet: Sabrina Sterrett (SFS ’27)
Clarinet (substitute): Josie Hwang (CAS ’27)
Bari Sax: Ryan Shea (CAS ’28)
French Horn: Elliott Schusky (SFS ’28)
Trombone: Dominic Wright (CAS ’28)
Trumpet: Amy Nilsson (SFS ’26)
Trumpet (substitute): Ruoxing (David) Yang (CAS ’26)
Viola: Abby Tucker (CAS ’25)
Violin: Jaewoo Chung (CAS ’25)
Violin: Vaishnavi Venkatesh (SOH ’28)
Cello: Matthew Weber (CAS ’28)
