Little Shop of Horrors

What a great show!  I am lucky enough to see many good shows but this one ranked with the best.  On arrival we found the audience being harassed by ‘down and outs’ from Skid Row.  At the same time others Tap Danced on the stage whilst others argued and pushed each other around helping to build a great atmosphere. The set was very simple but exceedingly effective with excellent props and furnishings but still leaving enough space on the stage for the action to take place without ever looking crowded. The idea for a wide flight of steps from stage to auditorium was inspired as it allowed so much free movement.  The orchestra which was tucked away behind the back cloth produced the right volume of sound under the baton of John Woodman and Brian Mercer on sound ensured that every word was clearly heard.  The lighting was cleverly designed again building the atmosphere but also making sure that all the cast could be seen clearly when necessary.  Now I must extol the virtues of Audry 2, the man eating plant brilliantly played by Bruce Stewart as the voice and James Clarke the puppeteer.  Their co-ordination and synchronisation were superb.  It is easy to hire a prop but a different matter altogether getting it to function so exceptionally well.  Next, but certainly not least, I must congratulate a cast of excellent principals supported by good dancers and some strong singing from the chorus.  The two main characters Seymour (Luke Palmer) and Audrey (Michelle Shepherd-Ede) were in a class on their own.  They maintained their wonderful characters through-out both providing great humour to their parts and singing exceptionally well. Tim Kimber (Mushnick) and Mark Roberts (Orin) were both performing very different roles from the ones they usually play and proved yet again their versatility. Their interpretation of their characters was excellent showing their unpleasant side.  Both received their just desserts much to the audience’s delight.  I was very impressed with the five Ronnettes who moved, sang and danced exceptionally well.  What more can I say than I would willingly sit through the evening again.  My huge congratulations go to first time Director, Kelly Manchee.  I’m sure I will see many more of her productions in the future.  Well done all.

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