Emma Thompson Shines In Sweeney Todd Musical
Emma Thompson had her debut yesterday in a concert version of Sweeney Todd. The two-time Oscar winner stole the show playing the silly Mrs. Lovett, the worst pie-maker in London in the New York Philharmonic Orchestra’s version of the demonic musical.
The British actress made her debut at Avery Fisher Hall in Manhattan, in the classic Stephen Sondheim-Hugh Wheeler musical. We even dare to say Emma stole the spotlight from opera singer Bryn Terfel, who played the title character in the production.
Joe Dziemianowicz, The New York Daily News’ theatre critic, praised Emma’s “robust singing voice” and “plenty of comic chops”.
Roger Friedman of Showbiz411.com wrote, “I’d have paid double last night and would pay it again to see Emma Thompson… Thompson lets loose as crazy, happy, lovelorn pie baking Mrs. Lovett. If only Thompson would come to Broadway in this! She wouldn’t need to campaign to get a Tony Award.”
Additionally, actress Audra McDonald honored the show with her unexpected appearance and left the audience, among which were Meryl Streep, Neil Patrick Harris and Sondheim, jaw-dropped. Sweeney Todd’s composer Stephen Sondheim later went on stage to receive full praise from the audience.
