The Southeastern Theatre Department hosted a first look at the musical classic “Little Shop of Horrors” on Friday evening.
This production was a collaboration with The Columbia Theatre and Southeastern’s Department of Music and Performing Arts.
“Little Shop of Horrors” is a cult-classic musical written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, set in a rundown neighborhood called Skid Row. The story follows Seymour, a struggling florist who suddenly gains fame after discovering and raising a mysterious, hungry plant named Audrey II.
Brennan Bankston, an industrial tech major, plays the lead role of Seymour. Bankston said he immediately wanted to audition when the show was announced.
“I studied the character. I tried to find mannerisms that I would incorporate in my audition. I went in and gave it my best shot. There was some amazing competition, and I’m very honored and lucky to have been cast in the role,” Bankston said.
Throughout the musical, Seymour struggles with the consequences of caring for Audrey II. Director Jeff Polito said the story also focuses on the relationship between Seymour and Audrey, the show’s female lead and Seymour’s love interest.
“Neither one of them expected much from life, and they just assumed that life would always hand them what it handed them,” Polito said.
The audience responded enthusiastically during the preview performance, filling the auditorium with applause and laughter throughout the show.
Many audience members reacted strongly to scenes featuring Orin, Audrey’s abusive boyfriend, played by Justin Laperouse, because of his over-the-top personality.
Laperouse said, “I was hesitant to take it on at first because it was so vocally taxing.” Despite the challenge, Laperouse said he looks forward to audiences seeing one of the show’s most memorable moments.
“The dentist’s office scene is a great scene,” Laperouse said. “It’s one that kind of sets the dramatic tone of the show.”
Kayla Ruiz, who plays Chiffon, one of the three narrators who guide the story, said the rehearsal experience has been a positive one.
Ruiz said the directors regularly provided guidance during rehearsals to help the performers develop their characters and motivations.
The show continues its run this Friday, March 20, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 21, at 2:30 p.m. at the Columbia Theatre.
