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HISTORY OF SONDHEIM'S SWEENEY TODD

Origins

The story of Sweeney Todd originates from a Victorian “penny dreadful” serial called The String of Pearls (1846–47). The tale of a murderous barber who slit throats and conspired with a pie-maker to turn victims into meat pies quickly became part of London folklore, inspiring plays and melodramas through the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Development of the Musical

• Christopher Bond’s Play (1973): The direct source for the musical was Bond’s play Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Bond reframed the story, giving Todd a tragic backstory—a man unjustly exiled, whose thirst for vengeance drives the plot.
• Stephen Sondheim & Hugh Wheeler (late 1970s): Sondheim, captivated by the Grand Guignol nature of the play, saw an opportunity to blend horror with dark comedy and rich operatic music. Hugh Wheeler wrote the book (libretto), expanding on Bond’s structure.
• Hal Prince, Director: Harold Prince directed the original Broadway production, shaping it into a large-scale social allegory about industrial revolution London, class struggle, and dehumanization.

Broadway Premiere (1979)

• Opening: March 1, 1979, at the Uris Theatre (now Gershwin Theatre).
• Cast: Len Cariou (Sweeney Todd), Angela Lansbury (Mrs. Lovett).
• Reception: The show was groundbreaking, blending operetta, horror, satire, and social commentary. It won 8 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
• Musical Style: The score is among Sondheim’s most ambitious, with complex orchestrations, motifs, and operatic structure. Songs like “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd” and “A Little Priest” became iconic.

Later Revivals

• London (1980): Opened at Drury Lane with Denis Quilley and Sheila Hancock. Received mixed reviews but has since been reappraised.
• 1989 Broadway Revival: With Bob Gunton and Beth Fowler, directed by Susan H. Schulman. Played more intimately than the original.
• 2005 John Doyle Revival: A minimalist production where actors doubled as the orchestra. Starred Michael Cerveris and Patti LuPone. Won Tony Awards and toured internationally.
• 2023 Broadway Revival: Directed by Thomas Kail (Hamilton), starring Josh Groban as Sweeney and Annaleigh Ashford as Mrs. Lovett. Marked the first full-orchestra Broadway production in decades.

Cultural Impact

• Opera Influence: Some consider Sweeney Todd an “American opera” due to its scale and complexity.
• Film Adaptation (2007): Directed by Tim Burton, starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. Won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
• Legacy: The musical is now regarded as one of Sondheim’s masterpieces, blending gothic horror with biting social critique, and remains a staple of professional and amateur theatres worldwide.

Song List

Act I

1. Prelude / The Ballad of Sweeney Todd – Company
   Scene: A London marketplace
2. No Place Like London – Anthony, Todd, Beggar Woman
   Scene: The London docks / street
3. The Barber and His Wife – Todd
   Scene: Street outside Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop
4. The Worst Pies in London – Mrs. Lovett
   Scene: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop
5. Poor Thing – Mrs. Lovett
   Scene: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop
6. My Friends – Todd, Mrs. Lovett
   Scene: Upstairs above the Pie Shop (Todd’s new barbershop)
7. The Ballad of Sweeney Todd (Reprise) – Company
   Scene: Transition / narration
8. Green Finch and Linnet Bird – Johanna
   Scene: Judge Turpin’s House, Johanna’s window
9. Ah, Miss – Anthony, Johanna, Judge Turpin
   Scene: Street outside Judge Turpin’s House
10. Johanna – Anthony
    Scene: Street outside Judge Turpin’s House
11. Pirelli’s Miracle Elixir – Tobias, Crowd
    Scene: Marketplace / street
12. The Contest – Pirelli, Todd, Tobias, Company
    Scene: Marketplace performance space
13. The Ballad of Sweeney Todd (Reprise) – Company
    Scene: Transition / narration
14. Johanna (Judge’s Version) – Judge Turpin
    Scene: Judge Turpin’s House
15. Kiss Me (Part I) – Johanna, Anthony
    Scene: Judge Turpin’s House / Street outside
16. Ladies in Their Sensitivities – Beadle
    Scene: Judge Turpin’s House
17. Pretty Women – Todd, Judge Turpin
    Scene: Todd’s Barbershop above the Pie Shop
18. Epiphany – Todd
    Scene: Todd’s Barbershop
19. A Little Priest – Todd, Mrs. Lovett
    Scene: Todd’s Barbershop leading into Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop

There will be one 20 minute intermission 

Act II

1. God, That’s Good! – Tobias, Customers, Todd, Mrs. Lovett, Company
   Scene: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop, bustling with success
2. Johanna (Anthony’s Version) – Anthony
   Scene: Streets of London
3. By the Sea – Mrs. Lovett, Todd
   Scene: Fantasy sequence (Mrs. Lovett’s seaside dream)
4. Wigmaker Sequence / The Letter – Todd, Company
   Scene: Todd’s Barbershop / Around London as letters are delivered
5. Not While I’m Around – Tobias, Mrs. Lovett
   Scene: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop kitchen
6. Parlor Songs – Beadle, Mrs. Lovett, Tobias
   Scene: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop parlor
7. City on Fire / Searching – Beggar Woman, Company
   Scene: Streets of London, chaos mounting
8. Johanna – Todd
   Scene: Todd’s Barbershop
9. Final Sequence – Todd, Mrs. Lovett, Beggar Woman, Tobias, Company
   Scene: Todd’s Barbershop and Bakehouse

Sponsors

Cast

DIRECTORS NOTES

Randy Leslie

Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd is one of the most thrilling, demanding, and deliciously dark works in the musical theatre canon. It’s a piece that asks us to lean into the shadows—where love twists into obsession, justice curdles into vengeance, and humour emerges from the most unexpected places.

As a director, I’m drawn to Sondheim because he never underestimates his audience. He challenges us with intricate music, lyrics that are razor sharp, and characters who are as flawed and human as they are theatrical. Sweeney Todd is not just a story of a barber and a pie maker—it is a story of society, of power, and of the lengths people go to when they are wronged, ignored, or desperate.

Our company has poured itself into this production with incredible artistry and courage. The score is relentless, the staging demands precision, and the emotional stakes are sky high. And yet, there is beauty in the madness. There is humour, there is romance, and there is that unmistakable Sondheim brilliance that keeps us captivated nearly 45 years after its Broadway debut.

I invite you tonight to enter Fleet Street with us. Allow yourself to be unsettled, to laugh when you don’t expect to, and to marvel at the artistry of Sondheim’s genius. This production is the result of countless hours of collaboration, creativity, and heart. I am grateful to this extraordinary cast, crew, and creative team for embracing the challenge—and to you, our audience, for daring to take the journey with us.

Welcome to the tale of Sweeney Todd. Attend closely.

Randy Leslie

Artistic Managing Director

Creative Team

THE HISTORY OF 1379 ELLIS STREET

History of 1379 Ellis Street, where the Kelowna Actors Studio operates:

Early Industrial Applications: Apple Crating and Woodworking

Located across from the Kelowna Public Library, the building that now houses the Kelowna Actors Studio originally served Kelowna’s thriving fruit industry as an apple-crating warehouse and woodworking facility over 100 years ago.

While precise construction dates are scarce, its sturdy timber frame and expansive open-plan layout—ideal for crate production and storage—hint at early 20th-century origins catering to the local orchard economy.

Transition Phase

Following the decline of the region's crate manufacturing, the building was repurposed for general storage and light industrial use. It remained vastly underused—a large structure awaiting a new purpose.

The Story of 1379 Ellis Street and the Early Days of Kelowna Actors Studio

Long before Kelowna Actors Studio made 1379 Ellis Street its home, the building itself had a colourful past. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, it was transformed by an enterprising individual with a flair for showmanship. According to local lore — whether entirely true or not — this person pulled up to the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas during a renovation and salvaged treasures headed for the scrap heap. Velvet curtains, ornate tassels, plush carpeting, and even canvas backdrops made their way to Kelowna, giving the Ellis Street space an eclectic, theatrical atmosphere.

Over the years that followed, various ventures attempted to make use of the building — from film and theatre schools to dinner theatre experiments. None of these efforts lasted, but the foundation was laid for the creative life that would eventually thrive there.

Rebirth as Flourishing Theatre (2003)

Before Kelowna Actors Studio established its current venue, the company’s classrooms and administration were based in what is now the Metro Hub / Event Centre just down the street on Ellis. Productions were staged at the Mary Irwin Theatre inside the Rotary Centre for the Arts, which was one of the primary performance homes for KAS in its early years.

This setup gave the company its first foothold for education and production before moving into its own dedicated theatre space at 1379 Ellis Street, allowing the Studio to grow its training programs and mainstage season into what it is today.

In May 2003, artistic visionaries Randy Leslie and Nate Flavel acquired and transformed the building into Kelowna Actors Studio (Piror they operated their . Their transformation included:

• Constructing a main stage theatre with 210 seats (plus over 90 dinner seats)
• Creating a fully licensed, Broadway-style dinner theatre—an exceptional offering in the Okanagan—and top-notch theatre classes.
• Incorporating a mirrored dance and rehearsal studio, a set and construction shop, a costume and wig workshop, a kitchen, a bar, and office spaces, spread across 11,000 sq ft of renovated interior.
• Since its opening in 2003, the Kelowna Actors Studio has undergone three complete renovations.

Becoming a Cultural Hub

Since the opening:

• The building is firmly established in Kelowna’s Cultural District, adjacent to major venues such as the Kelowna Community Theatre (on Water Street) and the Rotary Centre for the Arts.

Today & Beyond

1379 Ellis Street serves as a testament to adaptive reuse and creative vision—a space where historic industrial charm meets modern artistic purpose. It now functions as a vibrant training ground and performance centre, offering a blend of Broadway productions, drama classes, special events, and community-building programming.

Meet the Company

CATE CROZIER

COMPANY

Cate is overjoyed to be a part of this terrifying yet gorgeous production for a second time! She has been at the studio for almost a decade now, learning, performing and teaching. Cate thanks the wonderful cast and crew for being so supportive and such an inspiration to her. Swing your razors high everyone!

CHAD ABRAHAMSON

SWEENEY TODD

After prescribing pastries as Dr. Pomatter and dazzling in technicolor as Joseph, Chad has traded in charm for a straight razor. He’s thrilled to explore the darker side of musical theatre—and to finally sing about something other than dreams and desserts. He would like to thank KAS and his family for their love and support during this murderous time.

CHRISTOPHER IVERSEN

JUDGE TURPIN

Christopher has enjoyed the unique challenge of bringing Judge Turpin to life. He is such a dark and complex character, symbolizing blatant abuse of power, corruption and hypocrisy in society. Christopher is Theatre Teacher at JL Jackson Secondary in Salmon Arm and has directed many plays as well. This is his tenth show with Kelowna Actors Studio. Previous notable roles include André Thibault in “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Bill in “Mamma Mia,” and Cal in “Waitress.” Enjoy the show, and “Mea maxima Culpa!”

DANIELLE WENTLAND

COMPANY

Danielle is excited to be in this production with Kelowna Actors Studio, stepping into the dark world of Sweeney Todd. She previously played Mrs. Cratchit in A Christmas Carol and was part of the Company in Waitress. Beyond the theatre stage, she is honored to have sung the national anthem for the Okanagan Sun Football Club for the last 10 years. Danielle works full time in a surgical dental specialists office and keeps busy by volunteering and also serves on the Parent Advisory Council at her children’s school. She spent her younger years in competitive figure skating before musical theatre captured her heart. Every production is incredibly special to her. She sends her deepest gratitude to her family for their love and support.

DARREN SCUFFI

THE BEADLE

Time to resurrect another character from the past. This is the second time Darren has played the highly esteemed and well-loved Beadle. (Insert sarcasm here) This season has been a resurrection of sorts. After 6 years away from the stage, he has had the humble honour of reprising two roles. One in Joseph and the other in this production. It is good to be back among dear friends. Most importantly, it will be the first time Allison, Morgan and Dakota will get to be together and cheer on daddy! He hopes they know how much he loves them.

DAVID BACICA

JONAS FOGG | COMPANY

David is very thankful that you have made your way to the studio. Sit back and enjoy. And please note that he does not take after his character in real life. I’m not crazy! YOU’RE CRAZY! Back in 2010 David saw a production of Sweeney Todd put on by CYMC on Vancouver Island. And during that performance the fog machines set off the fire alarm, it was a whole thing. That’s not an important fact, just a… mildly interesting one… I suppose. Now this mixture of 1st and 3rd person text has gone on long enough, thanks again for taking time out of your day to come and watch.

DELPHINE LITKE

MRS. LOVETT

Delphine has been a KAS veteran since 2009, and is ecstatic to be a part of this amazing cast! Mrs. Lovett has been a dream role for Del for many years and she is incredibly grateful to Randy for giving her the opportunity to embody such a complex character. Del would also like to thank to Spencer for the extra vocal rehearsals, and Joanne for her extra votes of confidence. Past favourite roles include Becky (Waitress), Rosie (Mamma Mia '18, '24), Judy (9 to 5), Missy (The Marvellous Wonderettes), and Matron "Mama" Morton (Chicago).

EVIE PRASAD

TOBIAS

Evie is honoured to be part of such a classic show! You may have seen her most recently in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dream Coat or Hadestown Teen Edition! Evie previously played Pirelli in the Teen Edition a few years ago and is ecstatic to perform again as Tobias! She is so grateful to work alongside so many amazing people, including her incredibly supportive papa (Jeff)! Evie hopes you have an amazing time and get immersed into the wonderfully eerie Sweeney Todd!

GRACELYNN SALI

YOUNG LUCY | COMPANY

Gracelynn is thrilled to be apart of this cast of "Sweeney Todd". She is in her final year of her undergraduate degree at UBCO and is grateful for the opportunity to pursue her education and passion for the arts in Kelowna. Gracelynn was last seen on stage as Dawn in "Waitress" and has enjoyed getting to explore different kinds of characters in "Sweeney Todd". She would like to thank her family and her fiancé Josh (who is playing Anthony!) for their unwavering support. Enjoy the show!

JANICE SORESTAD

COMPANY

Janice is delighted to be back on stage in this classic Sondheim treat! Sweeney Todd is the perfect “spooky season” show combining a dark and eerie storyline with some of the most clever and memorable songs ever written for stage. Janice thanks you for sharing this experience with this cast and crew and hopes you enjoy the show! Cheers!

JAXSEN SPECKMAN

ADOLFO PIRELLI | COMPANY

It is with pride that Jaxsen welcomes you to this sinisterly beautiful show: Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Jaxsen has been doing theatre for about 5 years now and has not been able to escape since. When Jaxsen is not at the theatre he is attending his Grade 11 year of high school at MBSS. Stepping into the role of Pirelli has been both challenging and familiar, as the dramatic, boisterous personality is quite similar to Jaxsen on the daily. He wishes you a pleasantly spooky experience (that was an oxymoron) and hopes you enjoy the show!

JEFF PRASAD

COMPANY

Jeff is honored and excited to be part of an iconic show with such a talented cast and production team at Kelowna Actors Studio. Sweeney Todd is his second show this season and you may have seen him in Waitress. Jeff jumped at the chance to work alongside his ever talented daughter Evie Prasad. Jeff is having a blast and hopes to share the joy, thrills, and chills with you in the spooky and beautiful Sweeney Todd. Thank you for being here and enjoy!

JOSH RICHARDSON

ANTHONY HOPE

Josh is thrilled to step back onto the KAS stage and into the role of Anthony Hope in this production of Sweeney Todd. A lover of musical theatre and storytelling, Josh is grateful for the chance to bring such a hopeful and heartfelt character to life in contrast to the show’s dark world. Recent KAS credits include Grease, 2023 (Danny Zuko) and Sunset Boulevard, 2023 (Joe Gillis). He is extremely grateful for the amazing cast, crew and creative team.

KAREN SHALE

COMPANY

Karen is thrilled to be part of this incredibly written musical. Working with such a talented cast and creative team is a dream come true - she hopes you enjoy the dark and gritty world of Sweeney. Look for her next as Mrs. Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

KEEGAN MARTIN

COMPANY

Keegan has had a blast on stage this year in Hadestown: Teen Edition (Ensemble), Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Snape/Voldemort), and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Gad). He also enjoyed working behind the scenes operating the spotlight for Singin’ in the Rain. Favorite past credits include The Phantom of the Opera (The Phantom) and West Side Story (Action). Keegan is thrilled to be part of Sweeney Todd a second time after doing the School edition as Beadle Bamford 3 years ago and can’t wait to take on his next adventure as the “ghost with the most” in Beetlejuice Jr. Enjoy the show!

LEAH PARENTEAU

COMPANY

Leah is so excited to be in her first mainstage production with KAS. She has absolutely loved learning from everyone involved with the production. Some past credits of Leah’s Include: Hadestown: teen edition (Fate), and Harry Potter and the cursed child teen edition (Ginny). Enjoy the show!

PAYTON BISCHOFF

JOHANNA

Payton is thrilled to be part of this chilling and extraordinary production of Sweeney Todd. As a longtime favorite, this show has held a special place in her heart for over five years, and stepping into the role of Johanna is truly a dream come true. She is deeply grateful to Kelowna Actors Studio for giving her the chance to bring one of her most beloved Sondheim characters to life. Previous credits include Hadestown: Teen Edition (Hermes), Phantom of the Opera (Carlotta), Grease (Patty Simcox), and Tootsie (Ensemble). Coming up, you can catch her as Mrs. Bucket in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Payton would like to thank her family, friends, and mentors for their endless support on this journey. “If I cannot fly, let me sing.” – Stephen Sondheim

SIOBHAN RAUPACH

BEGGAR WOMAN

Siobhan Raupach has performed in numerous operas, concerts and musicals throughout Canada and the United States.This is her first role with the Kelowna Actors Studio and she is thrilled to be a part of this exciting production. Siobhan received a Bachelor of Music from McGill University, and a Master of Music and Artists Diploma from San Francisco Conservatory of Music. After completing her degrees at San Francisco Conservatory, Siobhan moved to Philadelphia PA, where she performed in a variety of operas and concerts in the East Coast. Some of Siobhan’s favourite performances were The Governess in The Turn of the Screw and Despina in Cosi fan Tutte. She has also performed locally with the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra and Opera Kelowna. Siobhan is also on faculty as a voice teacher at the Kelowna Community Music School and performs with her husband guitarist Kevin Robinson in the ensemble Duo Promessa.

SKYLAR NAIMAN

BIRD SELLER | COMPANY

Skylar is so excited to be back on the mainstage for this spooky show! You may have seen her in past credits such as Grease (Jan) and Hadestown Teen Edition (Eurydice). Along with performing she is also an instructor for classes, a stage manager, and a part of the young performance company at the theatre. You can see her as Violet Beauregard in Charlie and the chocolate factory this December. Enjoy the show!

ABIGAIL DEHOD

DEPUTY STAGE MANAGER

Abigail has worked for The Kelowna Actors Studio for nine years now. She started out as backstage crew and has worked her way up to stage management and production programming. Her previous credits as Stage Manager most recently include Waitress, Singing In The Rain and Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat. For this production she’s working as Deputy Stage Manager, where she is both overseeing programming and backstage crew. She’s always up for a great challenge and a show as big as this has been a mighty challenge. Now she hopes you have a wonderfully spooky Halloween and enjoy this thrilling production.

CARMEN ST. AMAND

SPOTLIGHT OPERATION

Carmen is very happy to be doing spotlight for this crazy show!!! Her mother, Elsie, has always made THE BEST meat pie ( tourtiere) Hmmmmmm………. Scary!!! Haha!!!! How do YOU enjoy YOUR meat pie?? We eat it with homemade relish or pickled beets!! Catch Carmen next on stage in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory here at KAS. Enjoy the show!!!❤️❤️

DYLAN RINGGUTH

CREW

Dylan is so excited to be crewing this spooky show! She is in her grade 11 year at KSS and has been involved with theatre and dance since she was little. She is a part of the Young Performance Company and helps out with classes sometimes as-well. You can see her in Carrie and The musical revue “Raise your Voice” in the new year. Happy Halloween and Enjoy the show!

ETHAN LANDYGO

CO-DIRECTOR | ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

Ethan is thrilled to present the dark and haunting tale of Sweeney Todd! Fresh off the stage from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, he’s delighted to return to the director’s chair for this spectacular and chilling tragedy. Ethan’s directing credits include Waitress, Evil Dead, and most recently Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: School Edition with our Young Performance Company. He hopes you enjoy the show as much as he has enjoyed bringing it to life!

GARETH JONES

TECHNICAL MANAGER | LIGHT DESIGN

Gareth is an experienced professional theatre technician. Starting in the late '80s at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London’s West End for the original Miss Saigon. He went on to work shows such as Phantom of the Opera, Sunset Boulevard, and various shows at The Royal Opera House and Theatre Royal Haymarket. Enjoy the show!

IAN BONNER

SOUND MIX | MIC OPERATIONS

Ian Piqueres-Bonner is a Sound Technician at the Kelowna Actors Studio. Ian has a degree in Audio and Music Production from the Buckinghamshire New University. He has collected work experience for over 10 years in many environments including theatre, pantomime, concerts from across the UK and Europe. He looks forward to the thrilling experience that theatre has to offer with the KAS community.

JEROME LAROCHE

STAGE MANAGER

Jerome is thrilled to be controlling the scenes from up top in the booth! After having the opportunity to play the merciless Judge Turpin back in 2014, Jerome is very excited to have the opportunity to do this show again with this amazing cast. Recent credits for Jerome are Scotty in The Evil Dead and Sergei in Matilda. Jerome would like to thank Alex for all the support she’s given him. Enjoy the show!

JOANNE RYAN

ASSISTANT-DIRECTOR | CHOREOGRAPHY | ACCENT COACH

Born to theatre parents, Joanne grew up in southwestern Ontario in a perfect triangular spot between Toronto, Stratford, and Detroit, where she was constantly immersed in the world of theatre. Her own career on stage began in 1994, and by her twenties she had expanded into directing and choreography with the Port Huron Civic Theatre in Michigan. In 2023, she founded That French Theatre Troupe, the first francophone theatre group in the Okanagan, where she produces and directs their annual play. Recent on stage credits include Jenna in Waitress, Kathy in Singin’ in the Rain and Sophie in Mamma Mia. Joanne is both excited and humbled to make her first creative team credit with Kelowna Actors Studio in this production of Sweeney Todd. She extends love and thanks to the incredible cast and crew, and to Randy, Ethan, Spencer, and Jerome for their unwavering support and guidance.

JORDAN LEBOE

SOUND DESIGN & MIC OPERATIONS

Jordan has been doing sound for musical theatre for nearly 20 years. He has worked on dozens of shows over the years and enjoys the unique challenge each show brings. During the day you can find him in vineyards scattered throughout the Okanagan growing grapes for a lot of your favorite local wines.

KIM ANSLEY

FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER

KIRK HOLLAND

SPOTLIGHT OPERATION

Kirk is excited to be on the other side of the stage. This is his first foray into being on the crew and he is looking forward to being a part of this great production.

LAURIE BROWN

COSTUME DESIGNER

Award winning fashion and costume designer Laurie Brown has recently joined the KAS team and continues to add her expertise to the stage. From headlining runway shows to the winner of STITCHED Season 1 Episode 6, Laurie is a must watch fashion designer with runway performances that push limits and keep you on the edge of your seat. With nearly 20 years in the industry, Laurie has worn many hats and rubbed shoulders with many talented folk along the way. From ink-infused evening gowns, looks that literally change on the runway, over a decade on set in film and photography, to custom bridal and ready to wear, she loves to catch the attention of the least interested person in the room. Laurie loves bringing the ordinary and extraordinary to life before your eyes, and she looks for to another year ahead to wow you!

MARVIN TURNER

MASTER CARPENTER | SET CONSTRUCTION

Marvin has been looking forward to this production and is the incredible Carpenter responsible for this beautiful set! Marvin extends heartfelt gratitude to the hardworking team for their relentless efforts in bringing this show to life.

NATHAN FLAVEL

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER | SET DESIGN

Nathan is the Co-Founder and Executive Producer of Kelowna Actors Studio, where he’s had the honour of producing over 20 seasons of musicals, plays, and youth programs. A performer at heart, he’s been on stage in more than 30 productions and loves the magic of a good story well told. When he’s not wrangling actors or real estate agents (he’s also Regional Managing Broker for Sotheby’s International Realty Canada), he’s diving into new creative territory. He would like to specifically thank Randy Leslie for his vision in bringing this production to life.

ORCHARD VIEW BUILDERS

SET CONSTRUCTION

RANDY LESLIE

ARTISTIC MANAGING DIRECTOR | DIRECTOR | CHOREOGRAPHY | WIG DESIGN | LIGHT DESIGN | SET DESIGN

Randy is the co-founder and Artistic Managing Director of Kelowna Actors Studio, where for over two decades he has directed, designed, and performed in productions ranging from Amadeus and 1984 to The Producers and Sweeney Todd. Known for his sharp wit, rich theatrical vision, and deep commitment to community, Randy was honored with the Queen’s Jubilee Award for Community Service for his outstanding contributions to the arts. A mentor to countless emerging artists, he continues to transform stories into experiences that cut to the heart—balancing elegance, emotion, and a touch of the deliciously dark.

RANDY GARRECHT

RADAR

Radar as he is known around KAS, has returned to the theatre after several decades away. Radar joined KAS and resharpened his theatre teeth with Evil Dead and hasn't left since. From hanging lights to building sets, he has finally returned to his lifelong passion!

SASHA YUNICK

BOX OFFICE

SHANNON MCMAHON

PLAYBILL | BOX OFFICE MANAGER | BEVERAGE MANAGER

SPENCER BACH

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Spencer is so proud of the cast, crew and creative team of Sweeney Todd. Congratulations on another unforgettable show! This is Spencer's 31st year working as a professional music educator and performer. Since moving to Kelowna from Vancouver in 2015, Spencer has worked at Rutland Senior Secondary, Okanagan Mission Secondary, and, currently, Canyon Falls Middle School teaching music, band, and musical theatre classes. In addition to teaching, Spencer is continuing to follow his passion for Musical Theatre as the resident music director for the Kelowna Actors Studio. Much love to Jo, Des, Cole, and Richard.

STACEY BAKER

SET DECOR

Stacey has been doing Set Decor for KAS for many years. She always brings to life each set she works on whether it takes place on the Riviera for Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Bedford Falls in It's It's A Wonderful Life, or the brick road for The Wizard of Oz set - she can do it all. Enjoy the show!

TABITHA JONES

CREW

Tabitha Jones is an 18-year-old who has been involved in theatre for most of her life, both onstage and behind the scenes. Her most recent credit was Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, where she worked as the fly operator, handling numerous cues throughout the show. A well-versed member of KAS, Tabitha loves every moment she spends there. She’s thrilled to dive into the dark, dramatic world of Sweeney Todd and hopes you enjoy our chilling and unforgettable production

VIV SUEL

PROPERTIES

Years of crafting skills, honed as our executive producer's mother has prepared Viv for the fun set decor in this show. Viv is thrilled to be working on another set alongside the talented crew and cast that have brought this show to life again.

SPECIAL THANKS

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO:

Rusty Gahr
Mike Weisbeck
Hazel Rodgers
Joy Green
Glen & Megan Jackson
One Peak Creative 

Thank you to all of the businesses which displayed our posters and media who covered our production. Your support of the arts is extremely appreciated. 

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