Little Shop of Horrors
Book & Lyrics by: Howard Ashman
Music by: Alan Menken
Directed by: Joe Allen Brown
Music Directed: by James McQuillen
Produced by: Theatre Wesleyan, Fort Worth, Texas
Audience Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 120 minutes (including 15 minute intermission)
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly: Not Available
ASL Showing: Not Available
Sound Level: Comfortable
Audio/Visuals to Prepare For: Simulated gunfire, domestic abuse
Reviewed by Stacey L. Simpson
A completely full house of enthusiastic patrons filled the Thad Smotherman Theatre on Saturday night for the Texas Wesleyan University Theatre Department’s 71st Annual Spring Musical, Little Shop of Horrors. The production, directed by Theatre Department Chair Joe Allen Brown, is the last musical to be directed by him at the university, as he will soon be retiring after 48 years.
The story of this cult classic follows Seymour Krelborn, a meek flower shop assistant on Skid Row who stumbles upon a strange and unusual plant he names "Audrey II." As the plant grows—along with Seymour’s fame and romance with his coworker Audrey—it becomes clear that this leafy carnivore has unusual tastes.
Brown’s seasoned leadership is evident in the show’s tight pacing. The student talent on stage is impressive. Trent Cole captures Seymour’s endearing awkwardness, and his chemistry with Lauren Hunt, who brings vulnerability and outstanding pipes to her portrayal of Audrey, make for an enjoyable production with a lot of heart. Sam Perez does fun character work as the crusty Mr. Mushnik. Dylan Evans is hilariously menacing and clearly having a blast as Audrey’s sadistic dentist boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, and does nice work in several other small roles throughout the show. Bringing the Greek Chorus/Doo Wop energy are Madison McKinzie (Crystal), Makailyn Felder (Ronette), and Sarai Castillo (Chiffon), whose girl-group harmonies and colorful commentary keep the show moving. Of course, the show wouldn't be complete without the strong character singing and smooth R&B vibes of Aaron Simmons as the voice of Audrey II. The ensemble’s winos and ladies of the night wander across the set before and during the show, helping to draw the audience in.
The students, faculty and staff have put immense care into this production, with Assistant Director Stephanie Locker-Hall’s choreography, Nathalie Beyna’s lighting design and Ricky Olivarez’s scenic design creating a world that feels gritty and, at times, otherworldly. Makeup by Trinity Chenault and wigs designed by Madison Mckinzie were nicely done, as were the costumes designed by Karen Potter and assistant designer Avangelise Perez. And a shout out goes to the puppet design team and puppeteering by Pella Lefever and Peri Zachmeyer for bringing Audrey II to life. I would be remiss not to mention the always excellent graphics and illustration work in support of the production by Jacob Rivera-Sanchez, which is truly some of the best in the area! And it’s always a special treat to hear a live band in a musical, and the group conducted by Music Director James McQuillen sounded great.
The show is sold out through the end of its run (April 23-26), but those wishing to see it can join an in-person wait list at the Box Office one hour before performance time. Call the Box Office at 817-531-4211 or go to https://txwes.edu/academics/artssciences/undergraduate-majors/theatre/box-office/ for more information.
On with the show!
Stacey L. Simpson
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