LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Bacup Royal Court Theatre Group

 

Director: Jordan Barnes

Musical Director: Christian Van Fields

Choreographer: Janice Purslow

 

This twisted fantasy sci-fi musical (with a plot it has to be said) includes abuse, addiction and murder. The star is a carnivorous eating plant but there is not a drop of blood shown.  Despite the dubious story line, there are many comedic moments. The show is one of musical theatre’s iconic shows; this has to be due to the well-crafted much loved characters and the outstanding score.

 

To create “Skid Row”, a drab and desolate part of “Downtown”, an in-house composite set supplied the necessary look for its inhabitants’ depressing lives. Lighting gave much atmosphere and sound kept the balance equal throughout. Completing the picture, the costumes supported the characterisations.

 

To make all this work, to bring everything together, the director created a snappy and fresh production. The little shop was defiantly in bloom. All the music was very well delivered by the company and band, with immaculate tempo. The choreography for Ronnette, Crystal and Chiffon was in true “Motown” style, while other numbers added to the overall concept.

 

The all-important ensemble work was extremely supportive and gave credibility to the downtrodden community. Supporting roles were strong, allowing the story to unfold. John Wynn supplied a first-rate ghoulish rock voice for the flesh-eating plant, which was successfully animated.

 

Those soul sisters, Bacup’s own girl band, Gill Pearson (Ronnette), Amy Singleton (Crystal) and Cindy Rachael (Chiffon) were the show’s Phil Spector style Greek chorus. Their delightful voices and R&B delivery of their namesakes was well received, “Da-Doo”.

 

Florist Mr Mushnik was ready to close down his business until the “fascinating little plant” came into his shop. Darren Brierley, with a nice European accent, fulfilled the role of the bemoaning Mushink.

 

Orin, the flamboyant dentist, who enjoys pain, administered, while high “It’s just gas” and would also like to torture his patients. As the Marquis De Sade of the dental world Patrick Duffy got all the laughs out of the oddball character, a definite hit with the audience. He also played other parts showing his performance skills.

 

The doomed young lovers, Seymour Krelborn, with every best intention, seems to do everything wrong but is the improbable hero. Guy Gibbs, as the timid assistant, convincingly conveyed Seymour’s sincerity and the hopelessness of his situation. He secretly loves Audrey his co-worker. Emily Wilson was the abused girlfriend of the dentist who has a dream “Somewhere that’s green” and when all hope is lost there’s “Suddenly Seymour”.  Emily showed the vulnerability of Audrey, yearning for a better life. Both these actors personified their roles.

 

This comic book musical tale was presented with gusto and enthusiasm and the audience response proved the company had succeeded.