Josh Groban out sick tonight — Page 3

ljay889 said: "I’m not convinced Jordan’s keys were lowered. Someone said this a couple weeks ago, and this past Sunday when I saw the show, Fisher was 100% singing in the original keys."

Anthony is actually a baritone role. It’s often played by a tenor, and “Johanna” often is brought up to a higher key, so that might be the confusion. As written, the song only goes up to an E4 I believe. I’m guessing Jordan is simply singing it in the original key but people are used to hearing it higher.

I need to see Groban (and intend to on Sunday if he is back) to fully understand the production, acting vs directorial choices etc but my first impression is that Nicholas Christopher is giving quite a different, almost naturalised take on Sweeney. The tone to me feels a bit like take a highly respectable actor with pristine vocals - someone perhaps like a Raul Esparza - and see what they can do with the role. It’s the kind of thing I could imagine starting in an avant garde off-Broadway revival from a famous/infamous European director set in modern times and becoming a viral success. His Sweeney is very sexy (in a way that feels unintended/effortless) and the chemistry with Ashford feels quite real - I’m having a hard time imaging Groban could possibly bring this kind of sex appeal but I will see.



I’m not sure if it fits the tone of the rest of the production though, which to me feels otherwise very safe. It’s like the purpose of the production is to most inoffensively stage Sweeney Todd in a way that both honours the material and appeals to modern sensibilities. Perhaps as a way to pass down Sweeney Todd to the next ‘Hamilton’ generation and define what the show feels and sounds like in a modern age. And in that regards perhaps it’s a terrific success. But this production seems to be lacking thrills and innovation.



As for Ashford, given the brief of production she is a perfect fit. Contrary to others I think she does not employ her usual shtick much in her vocal mannerisms either speaking or signing, for example. Vocally she actually seems to really do a lot of justice to the melodies in the show that others will throw away in the way of acting (I guess fitting with the inoffensive tone). And I just love everything she is packing into the role from the humour, sexiness, sinisterness etc. Act Two also started to elevate things (eg By the Sea and Not While I’m Around) it’s the closest to me of feeling she could snag a Tony, though ultimately I’d still give it to Victoria Clark (seeing Parade tonight).



Also, don’t even get me started on the accents in this production. So many are all over the place haha.

BdwyFan said: "Is he better and back tonight ?"



He's currently scheduled to be back tonight. I'm sure they'll make an announcement ASAP if he'll be out again.

Glad to read your thoughts, binau. I think Christopher being a very attractive man is probably adding to his sex appeal in the role.

Groban is not sexy in the role, but he and Ashford have several flirty and sexually charged moments. Especially in “A Little Priest” you can feel Groban’s Sweeney desiring Lovett sexually because of her brilliant idea.

The Groban/Ashford duo was the first time I actually believe they were living together as a domestic couple and sleeping together. I know it’s always been implied, but this time it’s fully believable.

Anyone see Jeanna as the BW? I have no doubt she killed

OhHiii said: "Been looking for a way to articulate my gripes with Annaleigh’s performance and you hit the nail on the head. She ventures into slapstick far too often. Sweeney Todd isn’t a farce and the humor is baked in, it doesn’t need to be embellished SO much."

Agreed, the pratfalls and that 360 degree spin on the floor (twice no less) was cringe.