Sweeney Revival Lyrical Changes?

I have seen the Sweeney revival, but didn't really notice.

What major lyrical changes took place? It's been said some lyrics were indeed changed.

Could someone list some examples?

Updated On: 11/21/05 at 09:03 PM

"I don't know if this was just a mistake but when I saw it, during the last Ballad of Sweeney Todd, Sweeney said "what happens then, well thats the play, and he wouldn't want to give that away" insted of "It seek revenge may lead to hell, but everyone does it if seldom as well." But like I said, that could have just been a minor slip up."

That was just a slip of the tongue. I saw Sweeney on Saturday and Cerveris had all the verses in the right order.

Hmm, during the show I do remember thinking that a line or two was different but now I can't remember what those were.

---

Well, I did read in several places that Sondheim made a few changes in the music and lyrics to accommodate the production. Anyone know of specifics?

that is right.

the lyrics changes were mostly made to accomodate the lack of barber chair, and therefore the changing of stage business.

for instance, his instructions to lovett to "knock three times" was simplified, etc.

and there were cuts in the contest, per usual.

It's "Like a perfect machine he planned" in this revival.

LOL jon!

I'm assuming the "****ing" starts with an "F"?

And what would be the purpose of altering that lyric? I have no problem with vulgarity, but it just doesn't work with the Victorian feel of the piece...

Seems to me that using a word like "****ing" that early in a show could alienate a lot of the audience. I would think that using "like a bloody machine" instead would not only have the same impact, it would also draw less attention to itself.

Updated On: 11/26/05 at 11:59 AM