|
Regional Reviews: Raleigh/Durham Little Shop of Horrors
The musical is based on the 1960 cult film directed by Roger Corman which inspired the original Off-Broadway production. The musical stage adaptation premiered in 1982 and ran a healthy five years. The film version of the musical became another cult classic in 1986, starring Rick Moranis and Broadway's original Audrey, Ellen Greene. Little Shop tells the story of Seymour (performed here by the astoundingly gifted Robert Ariza), a meek florist whose life on Skid Row is only brightened by his affection for his colleague Audrey (a fantastic Maya Jacobson). Audrey has her own problems to contend with as she is dating an abusive boyfriend, a demented dentist named Orin (sung with bravado by Jim Bray). Seymour and Audrey work for Mr. Mushnik (PlayMakers stalwart Jeffrey Blair Cornell) at his florist shop. The store is facing financial difficulties until Seymour introduces Mr. Mushnik to an exotic new plant which Seymour has named Audrey II (Micaela Shanyce Bundy provides the amazing voice while puppeteered with precision by ensemble members Matthew Donahue and Elizabeth Dye). The musical is introduced and moved along with the help of three street urchins, Crystal, Chiffon, and Ronnette (the equally wonderful Shayla Brielle G., Breia Joelle Kelley, and Shelby Sykes) who embody the Motown and doo-wop sound of Alan Menken's infectious score. Howard Ashman's lyrics (he also wrote the book) are as humorous as they are sardonic. As Seymour's "strange and interesting" plant grows, so does its personality, becoming animated and making Faustian promises of fame and fortune to the meek Seymour. And, as the plant grows, so does its voracious appetite–for human flesh. The production is paced almost perfectly, never lagging and never rushed. Under the leadership of director Jeffrey Meanza, the it effectively evokes the heart and humor underneath a rather bleak story. Though the movie adaptation may be what most may remember, there is no happy ending in the stage version. So be ready to see "the meek get what's coming to them." Meanza has set this production in the era of 1970s New York City as opposed the 1960s of the original. And though it is not exactly clear why the choice was necessary, it does remind the audience that this a timeless fable that can take place during any era and feel just as fresh and entertaining. Its cautious message is for any age. Regina García's set design is delightfully intricate in its details and embraces the '70s period and grunginess of Skid Row. Costumes by Grier Coleman are authentic, with muted tones of golden hues and fashion nods of big-collared shirts and bell bottom pants. The costume of Audrey's sadistic boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, DDS is quite the standout. He sports a punk leather jacket with plaid pants and a high pointed mohawk; a definite departure from the usual greaser look. And do not leave before bows, so you can appreciate all the luxurious patterns, fabrics and campiness of Coleman's design for Micaela Shanyce Bundy's Audrey II. Lighting designer Charlie Morrison (in his 10th production for PlayMakers) continues to impress, effectively evoking mood and highlighting location and performers with precision. Lighting cues seem ever present throughout and his hard work pays off superbly. Ultimately, like the passersby of Mushnik's Flower Shop, what everyone comes to see is the plant. Puppet design by original creator Martin P. Robinson does not fail to impress. There are four different versions of Audrey II that are utilized. As the plant grows to gigantic proportions, each incorporates its own version of theatrical illusion. Underneath all its campy humor and entertainment, Little Shop of Horrors contends with the moral decisions we all make on a regular basis. Is it possible to succeed without compromising our integrity? What are we willing to sacrifice? Hopefully, you are willing to sacrifice a little of your time to see this musical theatre gem and be entertained, enlightened, and reminded, "Don't Feed the Plants!" Little Shop of Horrors, presented by PlayMakers Repertory Company, runs through April 27, 2025, at the Joan H. Gillings Center for Performing Arts, 120 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill NC. For tickets and information, please visit www.playmakersrep.org or call 919-962-7529. Book and Lyrics: Howard Ashman Cast: |
