When Simon Burgess was cast in the title role for the forthcoming Arcadians production of Sweeney Todd, he knew that he would have to go back to school.
Simon explained “Sweeney is a Victorian barber, and uses equipment from the period. I have used an electric shaver all of my life, and had no idea how to even hold a traditional cut-throat razor, let alone shave with one!â€
Fortunately help was at hand, in the form of Rob Grosvenor, director of Headmasters in Cotteridge, Birmingham. Rob said “Although our focus is hairdressing, I have been in this business a long time and know how to use the traditional tools of the trade. I am also a great believer in supporting the local arts and local businesses in South Birmingham, so I was very happy to help Simon out.â€
Simon is a long-standing member of The Arcadians, and is looking forward to bringing that extra touch of detail to the role after his training session at Headmasters – though he won’t go so far as to use a real razor on stage. “Although we want it to feel as authentic as possible,†he said, “I think that might be going a bit too far!â€
Sweeney Todd’s Barber Shop will be open for business at the Crescent Theatre in Birmingham from 3 – 7 May. If you would like more information about the show or you would like to book tickets you can contact the Crescent box office on 0121 643 5858 or online at www.crescent-theatre.co.uk. You can find The Arcadians online at www.arcadians.net, and The ArcadiansMTC on Facebook and Twitter. You can find Headmasters at www.headmastershairteam.co.uk/ where you can book an appointment online or by telephoning on 0121 459 9053
For more information contact show director James Garrington on 07715 686116 or email jamesgarrington@aol.com
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