A bloodthirsty plant from outer space and a shy florist’s assistant take centre stage amid catchy tunes in Waimea College’s upcoming theatre production.
Little Shop of Horrors is a dark comedy musical about Seymour Krelborn, who discovers a strange plant after a solar eclipse. At first the mysterious plant brings fame and success, but that turns to horror as he discovers it feeds on human blood, growing larger and more demanding. With that comes a series of moral dilemmas for Seymour.
Amid the horror, the musical adds humour and rock-and-roll-inspired music in what head of drama Mike O’Malley describes as a fantastical sci-fi show.
The school has a production every two years and the last one was the fun and family-friendly Mary Poppins. Little Shop of Horrors could not be more different, and he says it is an opportunity for students to bring out their creativity behind the scenes as well as on stage. Plus, it’s a story that appeals to them.
“Students are quite drawn towards darker things – anything with death and destruction! It excites them. And I wouldn’t call it a happy ending.
“Seymour is a down-and-out guy in a bad part of town who discovers a plant that brings him fame and riches. But with that comes a certain grimness. The plant is from outer space and has plans for world domination.”
Mike says musical theatre is about collaboration and he is particularly proud of the production team working together.
“If the cogs don’t work, the machine doesn’t run. So, we’re looking forward to a few fun nights at the Theatre Royal.”
Little Shop of Horrors and its carnivorous plant will take over the Theatre Royal Nelson from 24 to 27 June.
