The frighteningly fantastical musical, Little Shop of Horrors, has arrived just in time for Halloween to make audiences scream with laughter. From the award-winning duo of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and ALADDIN), Little Shop of Horrors, is a sci-fi horror comedy meets love story meets rock musical, as a carnivorous plant from outer space takes over meek Mushnik’s Flower Shop employee Seymour’s life and threatens to ruin his hope of finding love with his secret crush, Audrey.
I have seen several stage versions of this musical, but the current one at the Music Theater Works is one of my favorites. One major factor that made this particular version stand out was the phenomenally talented cast. Jimmy Hogan as our hero/anti-hero, Seymour Krelborn, is perfect, with his innocent, goody demeanor, yet he turns to unethical strategies to become more successful and win Audrey’s heart.
Kayla Shipman as Seymour’s love interest was spot on as a young female living on Skid Row, always daydreaming of a better life “somewhere that’s green.” Thomas M. Shea did a believable job of playing Seymour and Audrey’s scummy flower shop boss, Mr. Mushnik.
Sam Nachison blew me away with his talent at playing not only Audrey’s abusive, crazy ether inhaling dentist boyfriend, including at least a dozen other wacky characters in the show.
The vocally strong and sassy street urchin trio, Kiana Beverly (Chiffon), China Orr (Crystal) and Michaela Dukes (Ronnette/dance captain), who carry the entire show through song and dance. Audrey II (the alien plant from outer space) was voiced and sung by the brilliant Najee Musiq Rawls. Kiana Beverly provided impressive puppeteer skills with Audrey ll.
Besides the great cast and catchy musical score that I never tire of singing along to, Shane Cinal provided a simple, yet intimate set and stage design. The entire show takes place either inside or outside Mr. Mushnik’s Flower Shop on Skid Row.
While Little Shop of Horrors was a fun, lively 60s doo-wop musical feel to it, I do want to bring to your attention that the story contains sensitive themes of domestic abuse, blood, and gore. I would not recommend this show for a young audience. On the other hand, the musical really resonates today, as it gets us thinking: How far will we go for fame and fortune? Also, be careful when feeding your house plants!
Photos: Brett Beiner
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the Music Theaterworks website. Running time: Two hours and 15 minutes including one intermission
Show Run Dates: October 24 – November 17, 2024
CONTENT ADVISORIES: Domestic Abuse If you or anyone you know is impacted by these issues, please consider the resources below.
National Sexual Assault Hotline Hours: Available 24 hours – 1-800-656-4673
National Domestic Violence HotlineHours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service
1-800-799-7233
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