"I'm sort of partial to the theory that Toby is retelling his story in the confines of the asylum, and making parallels between patients in the asylum and their Fleet-street counterparts. For example, there is the way in which he relates the aslym proprietress to Pirelli. It's fascinating to speculate why. "
I agree. I really love the idea of Toby as the artist, who's trying to relive a traumatic experience, while filling in the narrative gaps in the story. He creates the images from his past using his surroundings, in an attempt to form a choesive narrative. It DID happen- but we're watching HIS perspective. But, again, it's open to many different interpretations.
As to the loss of the theme of economic classism, while it's certainly true that it's played down in this version, it's not altogether absent. Sondheim's lyrics are still there ("How gratifying for once to know that those above will serve those down below"). In fact, the whole "A Little Priest" song has always been a rundown/critique of the different privileged social positions. The toned down orchestrations in this production allow for the lyrics to be clearly understood, so this theme, I believe, really comes accross.
The beggar woman is still a strong prescence in this version. We tend to forget that she serves as more than just the final twist. She's a constant reminder of the economic and social disparity in this society. She begs for money, sells her body, and creates discomfort. She's the lowest of the low. Even though it's toned down in Doyle's version, it's still present.
I would also add that when Mrs Lovett's business becomes successful, her attire changes to reflect her "new" status.
And, like InTheRed stated, the insane aslyum backdrop certainly adds to the themes of social disparity. The inmates are of lower status, the rejected and no longer useful members of society.
Updated On: 2/11/06 at 06:07 AM
