UPDATE 5.14.15 : This production will no longer feature Chuck Cooper. Find out more info as to why HERE!
This summer, The New American Theatre Co. NY will present a benefit concert of SWEENEY TODD by Stephen Sondheim staring Tony Award winners Chuck Cooper in the title role and Lillias White as ‘Mrs. Lovett’. Rounding out the cast is an ensemble of color featuring Clifton Oliver as ‘Anthony’, Britney Coleman as ‘Johanna’, and Arbender Robinson as ‘Tobias’. The concert will be directed by Artistic Director, DaMone.
In a recent video interview on the NATCNY website, Cooper explains how he has wanted to play this role since seeing it portrayed by George Hearn, but quickly accepted the fact that he would never get the opportunity. Happily, that is no longer the case. The mission of NATCNY is expansion and inclusivity in American storytelling and this production fits perfectly.
Sondheim is perhaps one of the most esteemed and revered creators in the American Musical Theater. His work consistently presents artistic and dramatic challenges to all who encounter it and is highly respected in the theater, and now film community.
Furthermore, in recent years, audiences are beginning to see diversity in the actors portraying these iconic roles. This event promises to give a fresh and historic take on the tale of the Demon Barber; one that will hopefully lead to more color in the vast and beautiful world of Sondheim.
The benefit concert of SWEENEY TODD will be Monday August 10th at 7:00pm at The New American Theatre Co. NY
1332A Atlantic Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11216
For tickets and more information, visit www.natcny.org
