I had the absolute honour, as Mayor of Richmond, to attend The Richmond Operatic Society’s electrifying production of Sweeney Todd at our iconic Georgian Theatre. The Demon Barber of Fleet Street has never felt more alive or more deliciously chilling.

From the moment the lights dimmed, the audience was transported. John Cropper delivered a brooding, magnetic Sweeney Todd that held the room in the palm of his hand, while the wonderful Hayley Graham dazzled as Mrs. Lovett, her razor-sharp wit matched only by her outstanding vocals. I can confidently say I may never look at a pie the same way again… and I suspect I won’t be alone!

The polyphony throughout the performance was nothing short of incredible, those intricate layers of voices rising and falling together created a richness and intensity that completely filled the theatre. It was a masterclass in musical storytelling.

And it wasn’t just the leads, the entire cast were phenomenal. Every voice, every movement, every moment on that stage was crafted with passion and professionalism. My heartfelt thanks to President Rhoda Fraser for her exceptional hospitality, and to the director and the whole production team for creating a night worthy of the Georgian Theatre’s legacy.

You lit up the stage, thrilled the audience, and once again reminded us all why Richmond Town is such a vibrant and extraordinary place to live.

 

Cllr Carl Tate

Mayor of Richmond