DIRECTOR Paul Kerryson proves his mettle again with the creation of another community production which could put many professional shows to shame.
That's not to take anything away from the talented company of Leicestershire young people who have clearly worked hard to create a polished and memorable production of a tricky musical.
Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd is a musically and lyrically-complex show, not to mention a technically-challenging one, as the barber's victims have their throats slit and are dispatched from their chair, down a chute into the bakehouse below.
But with the aid of the experienced Curve technical team, the result is as slick and powerful as many a professional show, at a fraction of the budget. This critic, a self-confessed Sondheim devotee, actually preferred it to the recent West End production.
Jak Skelly's brooding Sweeney offered dynamic vocals (and crystal-clear diction), embracing the darkness and menace of the role, while Mary Jean Caldwell's pie-making Mrs Lovett was also vocally-strong and owed a nod to Helena Bonham Carter in the film version.
Great work too from Christopher Smith and Lola McKinnon as young lovers Anthony and Johanna, dealing with some of the most challenging parts of the score with aplomb, and from Keir Barradell as a likeable Tobias.
Kerryson's staging brought back many a memory of his previous Sweeney Todd at the Haymarket, although it was again a joy (as with Oliver! last year) to see the vast Curve stage opened through to the studio and displayed in all its glorious depth.
But what's clear is how fortunate the company members are to be able to work with these facilities and professionals, and how responsive and appreciative they clearly are. From the principal performers (who share roles and appear in the ensemble on nights when they're not playing their lead parts) to the youngest ensemble member, there's not a person out of time, out of line or out of tune. And that's some accomplishment.
Like Mrs Lovett's baked goods, the company have risen to the challenge and created something oddly satisfying and decidedly moreish. Congratulations all round.
The show runs until August 11.
