Little Shop of Horrors

On opening the programme I was in no doubt that we were going to be given the most memorable performance from the Young Uns. There were 10 performers plus “Audrey II” ably managed by the 3 puppeteers Freya Mortimer, Megan Mills and Sophie Siddall. From a little acorn a large oak grows. Certainly Audrey II grew to fill the stage on the devoured blood and then whole people!!

Mr Mushnik’s (Shea Ferron) small flower shop certainly benefited from the unusual carnivorous plant as business picked up. Shea gave his usual impeccable performance and  seems to revel in these characters. As the programme says he gives both compelling and hilarious performances. He will be missed by the company now he is moving on to study performing arts. But this is a talented company with up-and-coming future artists.

The show was well cast. Seymour (Ethan Le Cheminant)\played his shy character, who was a foil for other strong characters excellently, and evolved as required by his character. Audrey (Celyn Orton-Jones) was almost unrecognisable with her blond curly hair. Her acting skills were obvious and her song “Somewhere That’s Green” was lovely. Audrey II (Ethan Roberts) was decidedly deadly and particularly frightening. Well done, but I hope I don’t meet you in my favourite flower shop.

And then there was “The Dastardly Dentist” (Will Heath). Not sure what Audrey saw in him. He took several fast-moving parts in the show but his scene with the “gas machine” was very clever. How he managed in the mask was heartfelt but his character demanded a bit of own back ending.

Will Robinson and Kamil Grzelak were excellent supporting actors in their own cameos as well as in musical numbers. They set the scene at the opening of the show as Winos; I hope they give up wine!!

Many congratulations to the chorus trio, Grace Roberts, Heledd Edwards and Katie Clark. They were extremely busy throughout with excellent harmony singing and several costume changes. Although part of an ensemble of three they were real individuals and evolved them  with some lovely singing. They gave a very strong start to the show.

The whole cast worked well and were obviously supportive of one another. There were several challenging songs which were performed well. Occasionally there was a problem hearing over the orchestra, although there was a good sound balance within the orchestra.

 As ever, the Production Team made best of every issue. They always rise to the occasion. Choreography, set, special effects, scene changing was especially slick.

Many congratulations Pamela, you and your team produced another wonderful show. You always set the bar very high for others to follow.

Congratulations to everyone involved

 

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