Located in northern Virginia, the Signature Theatre has a reputation for artistic excellence acknowledged in the most exclusive theater cirlces. Signature has carved a distinct niche for itself as an innovative interpreter of contemporary plays and musicals. A recent performance of Sweeney Todd provides further evidence of Signature's widely reputed affinity towards the works of Stephen Sondheim. Indeed, the company is said to be a favorite with Sondheim as well. Performed in a 126-seat black-box theater, Signature's plays provide audiences with an especially intense and gritty experience.