VICTORVILLE – Just in time for Halloween, Phil 413 Productions presents the chilling musical thriller Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, running October 31–November 9 at the High Desert Cultural Arts Center.

The Tony Award-winning masterpiece by Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler tells the darkly comic tale of Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber who returns to London to seek revenge—with the help of his clever accomplice, Mrs. Lovett, who turns his victims into the most talked-about pies in town.

Step into the dark, twisted world of Victorian London, where vengeance is served… piping hot. 

Local talent takes the stage

Phil 413 Productions’ creative director Amber Valentina said the show highlights the depth of talent in the High Desert.

The production features Ben Larsen as Sweeney Todd and Imani Aigheyisi as Mrs. Lovett, with Sarah Hernandez as Johanna, Steven Epstein as Judge Turpin, Branson McAnulty as Toby, and Chandler Van Allen as Anthony.

“All of our actors come from different backgrounds. Some have worked professionally, and some are beginners. But all of them put on a great show,” Valentina said.

Featuring live music, striking visuals, and a gripping story, this production offers an engaging experience for musical theater audiences and fans of suspense.

“You don’t have to go far to see great shows. We’re right in your backyard,” Valentina said.

A growing arts tradition

Valentina, a graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, said she has spent more than 20 years directing, choreographing, teaching, and working in theater.

Since 2017, Phil 413 has produced four to five full-scale productions each year, along with a handful of cabaret performances.

Event information

What: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
When: October 31–November 9, 2025
Where: High Desert Cultural Arts Center, 15615 8th Street, Victorville
Showtimes: Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets: $20, available at phil413productions.simpletix.com