By Mindy Pedlar
The first time I performed in this show, I was only 20 years old,” says Equity actor Adam Saucedo, who plays the title role in Cabrillo Stage’s upcoming production of Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. “I fell in love with the show – and the role — but knew I would have to wait many years to be old enough and to have lived enough life to play it.”
Rehearsing is Adam J. Saucedo as Sweeney Todd. • Photo Credit: Bari Lee
Saucedo describes Todd as a “complex and multifaceted character, with different sides to his persona. Forces within society have acted on him to create the ‘monster hiding in plain sight’. He retains a touch of humanity as he clings to the hope that he might reconnect with his beloved wife and daughter. His obsession with vengeance, however, is his undoing.”
This is a bucket list role for Adam and his preparation is impressive. Before rehearsals even began, he started memorizing his songs and familiarizing himself with the musical cues, entrances, and subtleties.
“The story is driven by the music,” Adam says, “so it’s important to really listen to what the other characters are singing.”
Sweeney is a barber by trade so Adam watched videos on the proper way to hold and use a straight razor for shaving. He even re-watched an old 1936 movie version of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street staring none other than … Tod Slaughter. He reached out to Reg Huston, an old friend, mentor, his first voice teacher, and the actor who played Sweeney the first time Adam did the show. He was curious to hear Houston’s thoughts on his experience, his take on the character, and what he had learned.
Like his mentor and predecessor, Adam Saucedo has a rich, glorious voice. His portrayal of Sweeney is well executed and nuanced. Recently as I entered the theater, they were rehearsing the song Pretty Women, Sweeney’s duet with his arch enemy Judge Turpin, played by David Murphy. I was blown away by the beautiful blend and sheer power of their voices.
Adam feels his personal journey and growth prepared him for this opportunity and he is ecstatic to be working with Cabrillo Stage again. Fans may remember his funny and charming portrayal of Gomez Addams in the 2017 production of The Addams Family. Come see him master this darker, deeper character that is Sweeney Todd — with a live orchestra and an extremely talented cast — the result is nothing short of magnificent.
Please note: This musical includes adult themes that may not be suitable for all audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.
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Sweeney Todd performs July 17 – August 10, Thurs, Friday, Saturday at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:00pm. Opening night July 18 $5 off Adult and Senior Premier seating with promo code “Revenge”. All performances are at the Crocker Theatre on the Cabrillo College campus, 6500 Soquel Drive in Aptos, CA. Tickets ranging from $25 – $60 can be purchased on line at www.cabrillostage.com/tickets.
The Box Office is open for phone 831-479-6154 and walk up sales Thursday -Saturday, noon to 6:00pm and 1 hour prior to each show. Special post show Q&A with the cast and creative team immediately following the Sunday matinee on July 27, 2025.