Those readers wanting a close shave might like to know Sweeney Todd has opened his shop in Southwick and is doing a brisk trade in a cut-throat business.

This classic Stephen Sondheim musical is being presented by Brighton Theatre Group and while it is well served by its cast, it suffers through misguided direction.

The decision to take the show out of its Victorian setting and move it to the present day does nothing to enhance it. Likewise, to set it an asylum is misplaced.

The 29-strong ensemble of doctors and lunatics provide a powerful chorus but at times clutter up the stage to the detriment of the main characters.

In the title role, Marc Valentine gives a terrifying performance of a wronged man bent on revenge.

As his pie-baking accomplice, Mrs Lovett, Ali English grows in confidence as the play progresses, while Gary Lynn's portrayal of the dull-witted Tobias is a particular delight.

The power of the score and the brilliance of the lyrics are such that the show triumphs over the unnecessary directorial trappings.