THE writer and director set to star in the Greenock version of a hit West End and Broadway musical has lifted the lid on the forthcoming production.

The gruesome tale of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is being performed by Greenock Light Opera.

The show is based on the 1979 musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler.

It was later adapted for a film version starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, though the show returned to the Broadway stage for a third revival last year, starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford.

Greenock Light Opera is bringing Sweeney Todd to the Beacon stage. (Image: Alex Craig)

Local writer and director Adam O'Brien, who stars as Sweeney, said: "It's been great. I've not had a show with GLOC since 2008, but I went to see their production of My Fair Lady last year and it was fantastic. Everyone on stage was having the time of their lives.

"So I threw my hat in the ring and I was successful.

"The music is composed by Stephen Sondheim and it's great, though quite complicated.

"I think it's got a bit of everything. It's gory, it's sad, it's funny and it's scary.

"It's a tale of revenge,. It takes you to some dark places. Basically this guy has been wronged and is looking for revenge.

"It's something that everyone can relate to...although they wouldn't go to these lengths to seek revenge."

(Image: Alex Craig)

Adam is joined by Sarah Campbell as Mrs Lovett, the infamous pie shop owner who links up with Sweeney Todd in a bid to boost her ailing business.

They are supported by a 25-strong cast, and director Ruairidh Forde, who will bring the famous story to life at the studio theatre.

Adam said: "It's quite an intimate space, where the action takes place right close up to the audience.

(Image: Alex Craig) "I think it adds to the atmosphere. I love the Beacon and I'm looking forward to getting back on stage."

The show runs from Wednesday November 6 until Saturday, November 9, with performances at 7.30pm each night and a matinee on the Saturday.

To book seats visit beaconartscentre.co.uk/whats-on.