Little Shop of Horrors

Little Shop of Horrors is a horror comedy rock musical with music by Alan Menken and lyrics and  book by Howard Ashman. The story follows a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh. The musical is loosely based on the low-budget 1960 black-comedy film The Little Shop of Horrors. The music, composed by Menken in the style of early 1960s rock & roll, doo-wop and early Motown.

We received a warm welcome from chairman, Richard Coveney. The audience, in the auditorium of the lovely Epsom Playhouse, was large and enthusiastic.

The programme was extremely well designed; with attractive photographs, illustrations & info boxes…AND that fantastic image on the cover.

It was a fabulous, atmospheric set. Loved all the detail of it, the laid-back way it was moved and the suggestion of buildings in the distance.

Costumes, hair & make-up were attractive and appropriate for the characters and the 1960s period.

Props were beautifully made and efficiently handled. The various incarnations of Audrey 2 were very well constructed and operated. Toby James gave good singing and talking voice to the monster.

Lighting was well designed to the show’s different moods; and was very precise.

Sam Fisher directed a fine, flexible orchestra. Particularly lovely was the sensitive accompaniment to the duet Suddenly Seymour. And this was beautifully sung by Ellie-Claire King as Audrey and Daniel Burns as Seymour. Ellie-Claire is a good, vivacious actress with a sweet voice…gave a delightful Somewhere that’s Green. Daniel’s Seymour was funny and athletic. He too is a fine singer. Their Call Back in the Morning was a slick and humorous opening to ACT II.

Great opening number, Little Shop of Horrors, from the trio of street urchins (Chiffon, Crystal & Ronette). Played by Catherine Poplett, Nicola Joyce and Siobhan James as a ‘60s singing  group; they are the commentators throughout the show. Their singing and dancing were delightful and well synchronised throughout.

Tom Paine’s Orin was a hugely overplayed characterisation. He was so comical and SO menacing and TOO REAL ! Be a Dentist was a scream; and his death scene, witnessed by Seymour, was utterly gripping.

Mr Mushnik was skilfully presented by Ben Horsburgh. Very funny and with great energy.

Louise E Wilson’s choreography was excellent, particularly the ensemble numbers such as Skid Row and The Meek Shall Inherit. The whole cast had great energy. Supporting players showed great experience and talent in their precise and attractive performances.

Our thanks to you John and your super cast & crew for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.