Town Theatre is closing out their 106th season on a high note with the musical comedy, Little Shop of Horrors, capturing the camp and humor we expect from this classic.
Based on the 1960 film by Roger Corman, with a screenplay by Charles Griffith and music by Alan Menken, the musical Little Shop of Horrors premiered in 1982. The play was originally directed by Howard Ashman with music staging by Edie Cowan, vocal arrangements by Robert Billig, and orchestrations by Robert Merkin. The musical was then adapted for the 1986 film starring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, and the voice of Levi Stubbs.
Town Theatre’s production shows that the story stands the test of time.
As the nerdy flower shop assistant, Seymour, whose unusual plant brings success to a skid row flower shop, Batesburg-Leesville Highschool Junior Nathan Jones does Rick Moranis, who starred in the original screenplay, proud. Seymour pines over his co-worker Audrey, played by Kayla Welch whose beautiful voice had us all rooting for her dreams in “Somewhere That’s Green” despite her terrible taste in men. Trigger warning: Little Shop of Horrors is set in the late 1950s and Audrey’s abusive relationship with her dentist-boyfriend plays a major part in the conflict of the play. But this production turns some of the less tasteful tropes, like the Chinese florist in “Da-doo” who ultimately gives Seymour the plant, on their heads with clever choreography.
Jeffrey Sigley brings levity and a booming voice to Mushnik, the flower shop owner. Yvee Willis, Ivy Munnerlyn, and Brittany Clark as Chiffon, Crystal and Ronnette, our Mo-Town inspired Greek chorus, are a powerhouse trio. Their changing costumes demonstrate the evolution of Skid Row thanks to Audrey II’s influence, so shout out to Dell Goodrich as costume designer for incredible storytelling via wardrobe.
The animating team for Audrey II is created with camp by Scott Vaughan aka “The Muscle” and Thomas Sowell who is a highlight as “The Voice.” Audrey II is so impressive the audience gasped when the lights came up for Act II. Lilia Barfield, Thomas Bozard, and Kelsey Graham make up an ensemble that does not fade into the background. Bozard’s comedic instincts, Graham’s dancing, and Barfield’s voice all pulled the spotlight at different parts of the performance.
But it is Brady Bramlett’s debut performance that really steals the show. He shines as Dr. Orin Scrivello, D.D.S. with impeccable comedic timing creating a villain you love to hate. His physical comedy in “Now (It’s Just The Gas!)” was electrifying, with more than a few cackles heard throughout the audience. Though it was his debut performance, Bramlett was not limited to one character. His comedic skills were put to the test in quick change performances in the ensemble that had this reviewer in stitches.
The musicians Gage Banks (Percussion), Sean Ellen (Bass), Alan Knight (Guitar), and Michael Simmons (Piano/Conductor) played on a second story deck built into the set and their physical presence sitting above the performers brought a rock ‘n’ roll vibe to the entire performance. The show is directed by Shannon Willis Scruggs with choreography by Roxanne Livingston Rich. Scenic design is by Bob Bramhall with technical direction and lighting design by Jeremy Hansard. Costume design is by Dell Goodrich, props by Gina Janvrin and stage management by Chelsey Art.
Little Shop of Horrors is playing through the end of the month with performances on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You can purchase tickets online from Town Theatre or at the box office Tuesday to Friday, 12 noon to 5 PM or 2 hours before curtain on show days.