Please Keep Me Appraised

Perhaps the most important part of the process of assessing a work of art is reappraising it. First impressions are tricky, with many works that dazzle on first viewing losing some of their luster when the heat of the moment emulates the second law of thermodynamics - with the converse often equally true. The best thing about the stage musical as an art form is the way the medium allows for a new appraisal to be based not just on a new opinion but often on a new production of the work itself. Of course, certain works of art retain their power in whatever iteration. Indeed, whether he's played by Len Cariou, George Hearn or (as seen tonight on PBS) Bryan Terfel, Sweeney Todd remains perhaps the most aspirational figure in the history of music theater - at least for those who feel that cannibalism should be as ubiquitous as it is unintended. Bon appétit.