Southwestern College’s theatre department will showcase their performance of Stephen Sondheim’s musical thriller, “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” beginning March 1.  In addition to the show, each performance will include the option of a dinner before the show, or a lunch on the Sunday, March 3, matinee.

Senior Erin Buster is the lead designer for the dinner experience.

“The meal will be catered by Sodexo, who will be providing a menu we have designed,” said Buster. “Among other options, the main course for the show will be meat pies.”
Buster also mentioned that this not going to be a standard dinner.

“The dinner will be themed towards the show including lighting, which sets the mood for this show. A goal of the lighting is to make the experience feel like part of the show,” Buster said.

Graduate student Arden Moon, who is serving as the assistant designer and mentor to Buster elaborated on the intentions of the dinner.

“The dinner and decoration are geared towards the show,” said Moon. “The atmosphere serves a purpose to be a part of the show.”

Moon added that although this will be some actors’ first time serving dinner to people, they will be trained beforehand so that they are comfortable with the job.

“It will be a good learning experience and a great way to interact with the audience,” Moon added.

At least 75 people are expected to be served.

On Friday, March 1, dinner will be served at 6 p.m. and the show will start at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 3, dinner will begin at 12:30 p.m. and the show will start at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 7, and Saturday, March 9, dinner will be served at 6 p.m., and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Dinner and show are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, $20 for students and $18 for youth. Show only tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and youth.

For more information about dinner or tickets, contact the SC box office at (620) 221-7720 or email performingarts@sckans.edu.