Little Shop of Horrors

This was a good choice of show for a talented group of young people looking to perform something other than the usual ‘safe’ musical and making it their own. The show has some fabulous songs set to 1960’s rock ‘n roll style music and the cast certainly did them justice.  It was obvious from the beginning just how much they were all enjoying themselves.

One thing I feel I need to mention is the very large ensemble.  These young people were on stage, often for long periods without being involved in the action, resulting in what appeared to be some loss of concentration, which I think was understandable. At times I was unsure who should have been reacting to the events unfolding on stage and who had perhaps missed a cue. I’m sure the audience, who appeared to be made up of mainly family and friends on the evening I was there, loved every minute of the show and apart from this observation, it was a very good production.

I thought Tom Rowntree was excellent as the nerdy Seymour. His acting and singing were spot on and I never once heard him slip out of an American accent. The same must be said of Zoe Antoniou-Tibbitts who played Audrey on the evening of this review.  A lovely portrayal showing Audrey’s vulnerability and all the emotions required of the character.

Joel Cairns was suitably menacing as Audrey’s controlling dentist boyfriend, Orin.  Very well played.

I liked Alex Berry’s portrayal of Mrs Mushnik, the flower shop owner.  Here we saw a softer female Musnik who lacked the aggressiveness often associated with the role when played by a male actor. I think this interpretation worked well.  Very nicely played.

Very well done also to the six young ladies who made up the Ronnettes.

Alex Holder and his assistants made an excellent job of bringing the man eating plant, Audrey II to life.

Everyone had obviously worked very hard on their American accents and this showed in the performance.

There were one or two missed lighting cues which was a shame and during one song in particular, the mics did not appear to be turned up sufficiently, making it difficult to hear the soloists.

The scenery was simple but very effective, showing us the outside of the shop, opening to reveal the interior and the fantastic ever growing Audrey II.

The production team certainly brought out the best in everyone and the band was just right for this production.

Well done to all involved. Thank you for inviting me and for the very warm welcome.

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