NORFOLK, Va. - An organization devoted to bringing world-class performers to Hampton Roads audiences is back with a new season this weekend.
The Virginia Arts Festival's production of Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" takes the stage at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The unique performance features the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Virginia Symphony Chorus and accomplished performers in the lead roles.
Rob Fisher, a Norfolk native with numerous Broadway credits to his name, will be conducting. News 3 caught up with Fisher shortly before one of the final rehearsals.
”I have to just keep pushing through and pushing through to get all the music rehearsed, orchestra alone. We put orchestra with singers tomorrow, we have a dress rehearsal the next day and then we do it. It’s really fast," he said. “Audiences know Sweeney Todd. Some in the orchestra have played this show before, but not many, so it’s complicated music.”
Fisher — who's worked with big names like opera's Renee Fleming, actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth and more — serves as Artistic Director for the Virginia Arts Festival. He says he tries to return home a couple times each year to help.
“I love it. It just feels like the right thing in the right moment and I’m very excited to be a part of the opening of the festival," said Fisher. "I’m so proud of this festival and it’s like people know it everywhere in the world now. We’ve all watched it grow from a tiny thing to like all the major international artists wanna come here and be in the festival.”
The Virginia Arts Festival is in its 27th year.
Following Sweeney Todd, the festival continues with Step Afrika! at Chrysler Hall on Sunday. The Virginia International Tattoo, featuring military performers from around the world, lands at Norfolk Scope next week.
Another highlight this season will be "Beyond Monet" in July. The immersive experience features the famous artist's works projected onto the walls of the Virginia Beach Convention Center, and is a follow-up to the popular "Beyond Van Gogh" exhibit that came through last year.
Click HERE for Sweeney Todd ticket information or call the Box Office at (757) 282-2822.
