0
0
One large man-eating plant, world-wide destruction and several months of preparation got NS off and running with their musical production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” Two weeks ago the NS theater department once again captivated its audience through the talent and dedication of both director Alex Barlow and the cast performing onstage.
“Little Shop of Horrors” musical is based on the 1986 movie version, which is rated PG-13. NS theater turned their production into a “must see” for the whole family. Cutting out inappropriate parts, NS pleased all ages with this horror rock comedy.
Although the script was changed to be more appropriate, there was still a large sum of violence. Scenes with violence included Seymour numerously feeding multiple people and severed limbs to the plant.
It also features a scene where Seymour threatens to shoot Dr. Orin Scrivello. Even though Seymour chickens out, the doctor dies any way in a long death scene from asphyxiation. Seymour then feeds the body parts to the plant and throws away the bloody clothes.
The musical then concludes with Seymour climbing into the mouth of the plant as he tries to destroy the plant, resulting in his death, ending the play.
Even though the quality of the musical was impressive, it took NS a couple tries to hit their stride. The group started out with a rocky start with performances for the middle school and youth groups on Wednesday. As they continued to perform throughout the week, technical problems were solved and the acting became more natural.
Spencer Brown played one of the lead parts, and convincingly portrayed the part of the insecure, meek and dejected Seymour Krelborn. Seymour is the owner of the carnivorous plant which he named Audrey II, after his crush Audrey.
Brynne Lamb also did an exceptional job playing her role as Audrey. Adding much humor and a dramatic flare to the roll, Lamb’s powerful singing and acting skills had audience members laughing. Audrey is a bleach blond who secretly likes Seymour, but is dating Dr. Orin Scrivello, DDS.
Dr. Scrivello is an abusive boyfriend and dentist played by Donnivan Kubota. Audrey met Dr. Scrivello at “the gutter” and now she can’t get rid of him. Kubota added an unexpected touch of humor and a bad boy vibe as he played his role.
Dr. Scrivello has given Audrey several medical problems, including a broken arm and black eye, and she is relieved when he mysteriously disappears. In reality Seymour fed him to Audrey II. The duo played their parts well both as the abused girlfriend and the abusive boyfriend.
Salem Kimball played the part of the flower shop owner Mushni, boss of Seymour and Audrey. Kimball portrayed all parts of his character well ranging from anger, joy and fear. Kimball also added a humorous touch to his role with his angry outbursts and his creative dancing. In fear of losing Seymour at the shop, Mushnik adopts him.
Nicholas Honey played the part of Audrey II. Although Honey’s microphone stopped working Wednesday, he kept it together and loudly projected his songs and lines, allowing the show to continue on.
The energetic Doo Wop Girls were played by Lucy Quinn, Ariel Valko, Ellie Anderson and Makayla Robinson. These four actresses increased the energy and laughter as they randomly popped up singing.
Although not flawless, the actors certainly pulled off the New Jersey accent, even though there were occasions where it could be hard to understand. For the most part the actors and actresses projected and articulated well.
Not only was the musical quality work, but the set itself was impressive and well-designed. The set focused in on Mr. Mushnik’s flower shop. As the story progressed the set also became more intense, with vines and paper money being thrown from the catwalks to add to the scene.
Three plant puppets, ranging from small to large sizes, were used to represent the plant. Impressive detail of the plants brought the story to life, with the light and sound crew also adding a professional touch to the mix.
NS concluded their final night with a breathtaking performance. It left audience members laughing, singing and excited to see the next production NS will perform.
