Little Shop of Horrors follows Seymour, a meek floral assistant who discovers a strange and unusual plant. Naming it Audrey II after his crush and coworker, Audrey, Seymour soon realises that the plant feeds on human blood. As Audrey II grows, it promises Seymour fame and fortune in exchange for more blood. The musical explores themes of greed, ambition, and the consequences of making Faustian bargains, all wrapped in a campy, 1960s-inspired aesthetic. The musical is known for its catchy songs, dark humour, and the character of Audrey II, which often requires complex puppetry to bring to life.
Saltpillar Theatre is noted for its creative staging, talented cast, and engaging performances, blending humour and horror in a memorable and entertaining way. Coco Martel was a standout performer in the role of Audrey. Her portrayal brings depth and nuance to the character, balancing Audrey’s sweetness and vulnerability with a strong, resilient spirit. Martel’s vocal performance, particularly in songs like “Somewhere That’s Green” and “Suddenly Seymour,” captivates the audience, making her portrayal of Audrey a highlight of the show. Her chemistry with the rest of the cast and her ability to convey both humour and heartache contribute significantly to the production’s success.
While Jasper Sherman delivered a compelling performance as Seymour. Jasper brought a mix of awkward charm and genuine vulnerability to the role, making Seymour a relatable and endearing character. His chemistry with Coco Martel’s Audrey is palpable, enhancing the emotional core of the story. Sherman’s vocal talent shines in numbers like “Grow For Me” and “Suddenly Seymour,” capturing the audience’s sympathy and support for Seymour’s moral struggles and ambitions. His portrayal is a perfect blend of comedic timing and heartfelt sincerity, contributing to the production’s overall impact.
The creative team excelled in its use of space and lighting to evoke different atmospheres throughout the show. The dentist scene is particularly noteworthy for its striking use of curtains and lighting, creating a distinct and memorable ambiance. Additionally, the props, especially the larger versions of Audrey II, are both amazing and highly creative, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and contributing significantly to the visual impact of the production.
The role of Audrey II is shared between Harry Graeve and Joel Schyer. Harry’s fantastic vocals bring the plant to life with energy and charisma, while Joel’s skilled puppeteering adds a dynamic and realistic presence to Audrey II on stage. Their combined talents create a captivating and memorable portrayal of the show’s iconic carnivorous plant.
Collectively, the entire cast and crew of Saltpillar Theatre’s “Little Shop of Horrors” should be proud of their exceptional production. Their collaborative efforts have resulted in a show that stands out for its creativity and technical excellence making it a remarkable experience for the audience.
Head to the Phoenix Theatre in Elwood 27th July- 11th August 2024
