Little Shop of Horrors was first produced as a musical in 1982, based on a low-budget movie of the same name, which was shot in just two days in 1960. It has since played around the world, including a current production in London and there are no less than two versions of it at the Fringe this year. It's a popular piece.
The score, by Alan Menken, is very much in the style of doo-wop and Motown, reflecting the 60s roots of the story. It includes some big numbers like Suddenly Seymour and Somewhere That's Green, with lyrics penned by Howard Ashman.
This production from ExADUS theatre company is sadly a little uninspiring. The ensemble pieces lack harmony, so come across a bit like a school choir. Some of the individual voices show promise, such as Lyndsey McCree in the role of Audrey, but it is Rachel Calandro who steals the show as the man-eating plant, Audrey II. It's also worth mentioning Paul Arnold for his impressive construction of the plant, which combined with the lighting really worked well.
I'm not sure why this production attempted to graft a Men In Black storyline onto the original though. It seemed trite and unnecessary. It was also out of place for the 1960s plot. But that aside, Little Shop is worth a look if only for the terrific score.
