‘Simply Sondheim’ will offer an evening of musical delight

A benefit for Vashon Repertory Theatre’s upcoming production of “Sweeney Todd” will feature local luminaries singing their favorite songs by Stephen Sondheim, a giant of musical theater.

By Beachcomber Staff • October 20, 2022 1:30 am
Stephanie Murray (left), and Bradford J. Thomas have been cast, respectively, in the lead roles of Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd, in an upcoming island production of “Sweeney Todd.” (Courtesy Photos)
Stephanie Murray (left), and Bradford J. Thomas have been cast, respectively, in the lead roles of Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd, in an upcoming island production of “Sweeney Todd.” (Courtesy Photos)

Early next year, islanders can get a taste of what’s in store for them in February of 2023, when Vashon Repertory Theatre (VRT) and Island Time Productions will present one of the greatest masterpieces in the American musical theater canon — “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

But first, VRT will stage “Simply Sondheim” — a musical benefit for the production, filled with songs from Sondheim’s beloved songbook.

The benefit will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Vashon Center for the Arts, and feature cast members of VRT’s upcoming production.

These local luminaries include Stephanie Murray, cast as Mrs. Lovett; Bradford J. Thomas, cast as Sweeney Todd; Arlette Moody, cast as the Beggar Woman; Timothy Wilds, cast as Judge Turpin; and six others who will join them to perform some of Sondheim’s most memorable melodies.

The evening, hosted by Voice of Vashon stalwarts Jeff Hoyt and Jeannie Dougherty, will include songs from “Into the Woods,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Follies,” and of course, “Sweeney Todd.”

The title of the show, “Simply Sondheim,” is meant to be a little tongue-in-cheek, said organizers.

“There’s nothing simple about Stephen Sondheim’s songs and that’s their appeal,” said Susan McCabe, who works with VRT. “Part of Sondheim’s genius was in his heart-stopping skill at capturing the highest and lowest moments in human experience and setting them to music.”

The evening will also include appetizers by Gravy on Vashon, a silent auction, wine from Palouse Winery and beer from Camp Colvos.

Billed as “the best of theater, beverage and culinary delights on Vashon,” the event has a ticket price of $100 per person, with limited seating. Tickets will go on sale in December.

All proceeds go to VRT, a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation.

Correction: A previous version of this story, published in our Oct. 20 print edition and online, listed an October date for the production, and said it would take place at Open Space for Arts & Community. The Beachcomber was notified after press time of the change in date and venue.