ACTING they say can be a cut throat business – quite literally it seems at Leamington’s Loft Theatre.
When Chris Gilbey-Smith found out he had won the leading role in the Loft’s production of Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, he was determined that as well as perfecting the words and music he would also learn how to handle the use of a cut-throat razor like a professional.
His search for a suitable tutor led him to Rob Walton, who still offers his clients the opportunity to have a ‘really close shave’ in his retro style Dashing Blades Barbershop at Fargo Village in Coventry.
Together with Douglas Gilbey-Smith, who will be playing the part of Sweeny’s arch-rival Pirelli, Chris met up with Rob who gave them both a masterclass on how to manipulate a cut-throat razor properly and safely.
Chris told The Observer: “It was quite an experience – one that should ensure I look like I know what I am doing when I take to the stage.”
Sweeney Tod runs from July 13 to 23. Visit www.loft-theatre.co.uk for further details.
Visit www.fargovillage.co.uk/tenant/dashing-blades-barbershop for further information about its services.
