Chris Smeltzer Stars as Sweeney Todd in New Production

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Chris Smeltzer as Sweeney Todd in a captivating scene from the production at Queens University.

News Summary

Queens University in Charlotte is buzzing as Chris Smeltzer takes on the iconic role of Sweeney Todd in a vibrant new production. Set to open on April 4, the show combines gripping themes of revenge and dark humor, showcasing Smeltzer’s talents as he navigates the intricate journey of a vengeful barber. The ambitious production features more than 80 cast and crew members and promises a memorable experience for audiences.

Chris Smeltzer Takes Center Stage as Sweeney Todd in Queens University’s Premiere Production

The vibrant city of Charlotte is buzzing with excitement as Chris Smeltzer prepares to step into the spotlight as Sweeney Todd in a groundbreaking production at Queens University. This talented 27-year-old may spend his days working with manufacturing control panels, but when he takes the stage, he transforms into a vengeful barber with a tale that’s sure to captivate audiences.

A Passion for the Stage

Although Smeltzer has been immersed in the world of industrial machinery, he discovered his passion for musical theater nearly six years ago. Since then, he’s graced the stages of Theatre Charlotte and performed in local productions in Belmont, but the COVID pandemic put a temporary damper on his theater dreams. Missing the thrill of performing, he took a leap of faith and began training with a vocal coach, honing his skills and preparing for the role of a lifetime.

All About Sweeney Todd

Opening night is set for April 4, and Smeltzer is thrilled to bring the complex character of Sweeney Todd to life in “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.” Under the direction of Laurence Cox and with music direction by Justin Smith, this production promises to be a blend of gripping themes such as revenge and dark secrets paired with unexpected moments of humor.

Sweeney Todd, a character fueled by vengeance and tragedy, teams up with Mrs. Lovett, portrayed by Kel Williams. Together, they navigate a world of murder and mayhem, creating a potent narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. This isn’t just a tale of horror; it’s a thrilling story filled with comedic relief strategically woven into the dark fabric of the plot. Cox cleverly designed the show to trick the audience, leading them to believe it’s all fun and games until the reality strikes with a shocking twist.

The Emotional Journey

For Smeltzer, tackling the character of Sweeney Todd demands more than just singing and acting—it’s about deep emotional commitment. To prepare, he engaged in thorough research on the character and the storyline, ensuring he captures the essence of the barber’s tumultuous journey. In rehearsals, he has proven his capabilities, particularly when tackling the challenging opening number, which helped solidify his casting.

A Collaborative Effort

This ambitious production has brought together more than 80 cast and crew members, half of whom are students at Queens University and the other half from the local community. Since January, the cast has been tirelessly working together, rehearsing long days with only two weeks in which to stage the performance. The camaraderie among the diverse group is palpable, creating a unique support system that enhances the whole experience.

Community and Creativity

The performances will take place at the Gambrell Center, where on April 5 at 7:30 p.m. and April 6 at both 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., audiences can indulge in this edgy production. The Gambrell Center not only boasts advanced technical capabilities but also embodies a mission to foster community engagement and creative expression. Its reopening in 2020 has echoed the strong desire for collaboration, making it the perfect venue for this exciting performance.

Excitement in the Air

As opening night approaches, anticipation is building. With themes that resonate with younger audiences and a blend of dark humor, “Sweeney Todd” is set to be a memorable experience. The combination of talent, passion, and community spirit ensures that audiences are in for a treat. Get ready, Charlotte—Chris Smeltzer and his fellow cast members are about to redefine the evening with a production that promises to be unforgettable!