Little Shop Of Horrors

Well, where to begin!?

Little Shop Of Horrors has been a favourite of mine for longer than I care to remember and Hartlepool Stage Society’s production has kept it in my firm favourites list for sure!

From start to finish, there was not one weak link in the entire show.

Opening with the iconic 4 chords from the 6 piece orchestra, the audience’s anticipation grew as cast arrived on stage led by Ronette, Chiffon and Crystal (played by Lisa Coulson, Katie Devine and Sarah Charlton) who sang the opening number fabulously! The three ladies had great chemistry both together and with the rest of the cast. They were also joined by their counterparts Blossom, Dixie and Shirelle (played by Honey Pidd, Lucy Stokle and Rebekah Hart) who bashed out great harmonies with such force and passion.

As the show moved on, we were introduced to more and more characters. One of which being Mrs Mushnik played superbly by Christine Close. I have never seen this part done as a ‘Mrs Mushnik before as usually it is ‘Mr Mushnik’ but I thought it worked great.

The two unlikely lovebirds of the story are Seymour (played by Andrew Dovaston) and Audrey (played by Sally Smith). These two had great chemistry on stage and both of their characterisations were on point! Great vocals added to their portrayals. ‘Suddenly Seymour’ went down an absolute treat with the audience. Well done to you both. Rivalling Seymour for Audrey’s affection is a nasty, bad tempered Dentist called Orin (played really well by Peter Rowlands). Peter brought out the dark, nasty, maniacal side of Orin which was great to see.

To the plant itself……seriously, WOW! Again, a first for me hearing a female’s voice as Audrey II but Liz Marshall was sensational.

Dressed to impress as she emerged from the mouth of the plant (something that I have never seen before as usually you just hear the voice of the plant), she stunned the audiences  with her plant based costume and amazing vocals.

Accompanied by a great Orchestra, a great set, great costumes and effective lighting designs, this show was definitely a must see and hopefully each performance had standing ovations as I certainly was on my feet at the end cheering you all.

Well done one and all and I look forward to seeing you for your anniversary show later in the year.

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