The name Stephen Sondheim is famous among the world of musical theatre. An American composer and lyricist, he is the genius behind some of the most notable pieces of theatre, such as West Side Story, Sweeney Todd and Into the Woods (to name very few). Putting it Together compiles iconic music from his most famous scores into a celebration of his extraordinary talent for storytelling through song.
Putting It Together first took to the stage in Oxford in 1992, under the direction of Julia McKenzie in a production by Cameron McIntosh. The show then made its Off-Broadway debut in the United States a year later.
Now, Impresario Productions brings this celebration of Sondheim to the Sydney stage, and it is a delightful journey through the composer’s immortal contribution to the musical theatre world.
A musical revue would be described as a compilation of songs that explore a similar theme, as opposed to following a linear narrative that we see in traditional musicals. Putting It Together sees five individuals gathered in a New York City apartment to celebrate and satirise love, relationships and desire through the medium of Sondheim’s music.
The audience clearly received the memo that this was a party, as theatre goers descended upon the Foundry Theatre in their cocktail finest. From the moment we entered, the music, staging and lighting transported us to the opulence of upper-class New York City.
Nick Fry has done an impeccable job transforming the theatre into the perfect soirée setting, complete with decadent crystal chandeliers and the most perfectly themed musical note staircase banister.
Cameron Mitchell, as director and choreographer, has perfectly captured the whimsy, wit and wonder of Sondheim’s score. The performers leap nimbly between emotional ballads and highly complex comedic numbers. They leave the audience on the edge of their seats as they await the next song.
In this production, the three musicians are featured on the stage. And my goodness, are they deserving of the thunderous round of applause that they received at the end of the night. Musical Director Kevin Wang and musician Nicholas Till wield their dual pianos deftly. Richard Gleeson on percussion is mesmerising as he navigates the multiple instruments at his station.
As I left the theatre, the sentiment I heard repeatedly was how extraordinary our Australian talent is, and I couldn’t agree more. The cast delivers the complexity of Sondheim’s music with finesse and delightful characterisation.
Bert Labonté is the perfect observer and narrator of the evening. His comedic delivery and charm make you feel truly welcome into the celebration.
Caroline O’Connor continues to demonstrate why she is an icon of the Australian musical theatre scene. Her delivery of some of Sondheim’s most tongue-tripping work is a delight to watch. She brings such amazing depth to her character.
Michael Cormick, in the role of Husband, commands the stage. He demonstrates a beautiful blend of gravitas and emotion that truly holds the audience in every moment.
Stefanie Caccamo is a powerhouse of a performer. Her vocals are absolutely gorgeous as she expertly navigates a diverse range of tone and character throughout her songs.
Nigel Huckle is delightful as the Young Man. He captures the hearts of the audience with his incredible emotional connection to the music and his playful physicality.
Putting it Together is the perfect way to kick off 2026. It celebrates not only the incredible work of a musical theatre legend, but also our extraordinary Australian talent. If you are after a joyful and glamorous way to start your year, Putting it Together is the show for you.
Putting It Together runs until 15 February at Foundry Theatre, Pirrama Road Pyrmont NSW 2009.
Tickets: https://www.foundrytheatre.com.au/putting-it-together#times
Website: https://www.foundrytheatre.com.au/putting-it-together
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/foundrytheatresydney/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
