From its origins as a short story written by HG Wells in 1894 to one of the funniest, most popular and downright delicious musicals ever written, Little Shop of Horrors has enjoyed an amazing journey over the last 132 years.
The new production, that plays Lighthouse Poole from Tuesday 20 to Saturday 24 October, marks the return of Exeter Northcott Theatre to producing a full-scale musical for the first time in more than 20 years with Lighthouse Poole and Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre collaborating as co-producing partners.
The cautionary tale about a man-eating plant gained cult status when it grew into Charles B Griffith‘s 1960 low-budget film, which inspired the stage musical by now legendary duo, Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. After debuting Off Off-Broadway in 1982, it enjoyed more than 2,000 performances in its home theatre and later toured internationally, including to the West End in 1983. Following the show’s success, Frank Oz directed his infamous 1986 musical film, with an estimated budget of $25 million.
“I think Little Shop of Horrors is one of those shows people remember with enormous affection but perhaps don’t always remember quite how brilliant it is,” says Martin Berry, Creative Director and Joint Chief Executive of Exeter Northcott.
“The songs are extraordinary, the comedy is razor-sharp, and beneath all the sci-fi madness there is a real emotional pull. It feels timely because it is about people dreaming of escape: wanting more from life, wanting love, wanting security, wanting to be seen. That feels very human and very current. It is also a show about ambition, temptation and the price of success, which gives it a darker bite beneath the fun.
“And then, of course, it is just wildly entertaining. At a time when audiences are looking for joy, energy and a great night out, Little Shop offers all of that, but with real heart and mischief too.”
The story follows mild-mannered florist Seymour (played by Scott McClure) who stumbles upon a strange and exotic plant he names Audrey (Leigh Quinn) and believes his luck is finally turning. But this new green arrival has a very particular taste… and as success blooms and true love beckons, our hero has an impossible choice to make.
“Audiences can expect a really entertaining, high-energy production with brilliant songs, bold performances, sharp comedy and, of course, one very hungry plant,” adds Martin.
“We want it to feel theatrical, playful and alive — not a museum piece or a copy of the film, but a fresh stage production that celebrates everything people love about Little Shop of Horrors. There is the doo-wop sound, the B-movie sci-fi feel, the romance, the chaos, the darkness and the sheer absurdity of it all.
“But I also hope audiences are surprised by how much heart the show has. Seymour and Audrey are two people trapped by circumstance, dreaming of something kinder and better. Beneath the laughs and the outrageousness, there is a real tenderness there. I hope people leave having had a brilliant night out but also feeling the strange emotional punch of the story.”
Tickets are on sale now at Little Shop of Horrors – Lighthouse and on 01202 280000.
(NC)