Displaying items by tag: Music Theatre Works

Music Theatre Works’ Little Shop of Horrors, featuring music by Howard Ashman and a book and lyrics by Alan Menken, is the ultimate Halloween and fall musical for cult hit fans. This spooky, yet fun production captures the essence of the beloved story, making it a must-see for the season.

It all began in 1982 when the off-off-Broadway performances first took place, before moving off-Broadway to Orpheum Theater. But most probably remember the 1986 film adaptation of Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Frank Oz and based on the off-Broadway musical, starring Steve Martin, Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene and Vincent Gardenia. The musical centers on Mushnik’s Flower Shop, a struggling business in a shabby neighborhood. Here, Seymour, a nerdy employee, discovers and nurtures an alien carnivorous plant, which he names Audrey II, after his co-worker Audrey, who he is crushing on. Driven by his love for Audrey and the desire to boost the shop's dwindling sales for Mr. Mushnik, Seymour helps the unidentified plant grow with steadfast dedication. Unfortunately, the food that the plant needs to grow is human blood, and the musical becomes a lesson in being careful what you wish for!

Kayla Shipman truly excels as Audrey. With her lovely presence and remarkable singing voice, Shipman captures the audience's hearts with her sweet and caring personality. This makes the revenge against her abusive, violent dentist boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, all the more satisfying. One of Shipman’s notable numbers is "Somewhere That's Green,” a touching ballad where Audrey shares her dreams of leaving behind her bleak, urban life. She envisions finding happiness in a serene, suburban setting with a home, a yard, and a family filled with love and contentment. This poignant moment unveils her vulnerability and longing for a brighter future. 

(L to R) Kayla Shipman and Jimmy Hogan in Little Shop of Horrors from Music Theater Works.

Jimmy Hogan portrays Seymour as a likable character who must muster more courage to handle the plant's demands. His grounded performance provides a perfect counterbalance to the rest of the cast's comedic extremes. Hogan really shines in his powerful number with Shipman, "Suddenly Seymour.” The song signifies a pivotal moment in Audrey and Seymour's relationship. Audrey comes to see that Seymour genuinely cares for her and offers a brighter future. It's a moment of revelation and reassurance, with Seymour vowing to protect her and demonstrating that she deserves love and happiness. Themes of love, support, and newfound confidence shine through in this heartfelt duet.

The plant comes alive thanks to Najee Musiq Rawls, who voices Audrey II and really impresses during “Feed Me (Git it!).” "Feed Me (Git It!)" is a crucial song in Little Shop of Horrors. Here, the carnivorous plant Audrey II insists on more human blood to grow stronger, luring Seymour with promises of fame, fortune, and love. This song spotlights Seymour's moral struggle, caught between his conscience and the plant's insatiable hunger, heightening the story's tension and propelling the plot forward.

Sam Nachison delivers a standout performance as Orin Scrivello, particularly shining in the number “Dentist!” This song, which hilariously recounts how his sadistic tendencies drove him to dentistry, showcases Nachison's talent and darkly comedic flair. The cast is bolstered by a talented ensemble who deliver strong performances in both dance and song numbers while Thomas M. Shea does an admirable job in his portrayal of store owner, Mr. Mushnik. The show gets an additional lift from its excellent set design, lighting, costumes, and puppetry. Music Theatre Works never fails to produce vibrant and captivating productions.

Although the set begins with a dark and somber feel, it brightens considerably with lighting effects and vibrant costume changes as Audrey II's fame and popularity grow, captivating audiences worldwide. The company excels in strategically staging this wild musical in the intimate North Theatre at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in nearby Skokie. 

Little Shop of Horrors is expertly directed by Producing Artistic Director Kyle A. Dougan, with choreography by Reneisha Jenkins and musical direction by Linda Madonia. I recommend this show for audiences aged 13 and over. Though an entertaining story with plenty of humorous moments, the themes in Little Shop of Horrors, such as domestic violence, a sadistic dentist who tortures his patients, and a plant that grows by devouring humans, are questionable for younger viewers, despite the show's renowned puppetry.

Music Theatre Works’ Little Shop of Horrors is currently being performed in the North Theatre at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts through November 17th. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE.