Fact sheet for
1840's London. It is the height of the Industrial Revolution, yet poverty in mind, body, and spirit are also at their height. Sixteen years previous, a barber (Benjamin Barker) was sent to the prison colonies in Australia on a trumped up charge. This was done by Judge Turpin, and abetted by his Beedle (the court bailiff), so the Judge could "have his way" with Benjamin's wife. The wife disappears leaving a small child (Johanna) who is raised by the Judge (for his future "needs").
As the story begins, Anthony and Barker/Sweeney arrive in London after months at sea. It has been 16 years since Sweeney was sent away. Prior to our story, Sweeney had affected an escape from prison. Anthony spotted him floating on a raft in the ocean and rescued him. They have become friends of a sort on the long voyage from the South Seas to London.
Sweeney Todd has arrived at the scene of the crime and is prepared to set things to rights!