Tony winner Annaleigh Ashford, currently starring as Mrs. Lovett in the Broadway revival of Sweeney Todd, has announced a temporary break from the show after testing positive for COVID-19.
Ashford shared the news with her Instagram followers: "To anyone planning on seeing @sweeneytoddbway: I have unfortunately tested positive for COVID," she writes. "But my very brilliant friend [standby Jeanna de Waal] will be playing Mrs. Lovett with the rest of our magical company. I can't wait to see you all again soon."
Ashford's announcement comes just after her co-star, and fellow 2023 Tony nominee, Josh Groban tested positive for COVID last Friday, temporarily stepping out of the role of Sweeney Todd. The show's official Instagram page shared that de Waal will take over as Mrs. Lovett August 23鈥�25. Nicholas Christopher will continue as Sweeney Todd for both performances August 23 after assuming the role last week.
The Sweeney Todd cast also includes as Anthony, (Stranger Things) as Tobias, Tony Award winner and Laurence Olivier Award nominee (The King and I) as Beggar Woman, (On Your Feet!) as Johanna, (The Last Ship) as Judge Turpin, (Les Mis茅rables) as Beadle Bamford, and (Hamilton) as Pirelli.
The ensemble includes , , Taeler Cyrus, , , , , , , , , , , , , and .
Rounding out the company are swings , , , , , and .
Based on the Christopher Bond play of the same name, Sweeney Todd centers on its titular barber who seeks revenge on a corrupt judge and turns to murder, with neighbor and accomplice Mrs. Lovett ultimately discovering they can dispose of the evidence by serving up the most unsettling meat pies to the people of London.
The production features choreography by , scenic design by , costume design by , lighting design by , sound design by , special effects design by , and wig, hair, and make-up design by . Casting is by , and 's and serve as general managers. is production stage manager.
