The Marcus Center for the Performing Arts closes its 2004-05 Broadway season with the peppy Little Shop of Horrors. This is the touring version of the Broadway show, directed by the talented Jerry Zaks. The show benefits from its newfound Broadway polish, with a cast that showcases top voices and excellent performances. Kathleen Marshall's choreography is another new treat. Much of it is lavished on the top-notch trio of Skid Row chorines. They have been given more prominence in this version; indeed, they appear in almost every scene. Another change (also for the better) is that the main character, Seymour, now appears less cartoonish and more human. This is in contrast to his shop girl sweetheart, Audrey, who remains locked in her stereotypical character.
Despite these changes, it is interesting to note how little the show has been reworked in the 23 years since this reviewer saw the original production at the WPA Theatre in Greenwich Village. Despite the passing of decades, much of the original dialogue, dance moves, etc. remain intact.
The inherent problem in moving this show to Broadway lies in its small cast and simple story. In this regard, Little Shop fails to measure up. However, that doesn't detract from the show's many strengths. It has catchy tunes, including the show stopping hits, "Somewhere That's Green" and "Suddenly Seymour." While much of the humor is tongue-in-cheek, it remains true to its vision. The characters remain embedded in their grimy Skid Row roots, from the hero, Seymour (Jonathan Rayson), to girlfriend Audrey (Tari Kelly, formerly of Madison, Wis.) and their boss, flower shop owner Mr. Mushnik (Lenny Wolpe). These stage veterans manage to wring every laugh out of the show's improbable format. The plot involves a man-eating plant that Seymour finds under mysterious circumstances. The plant's appetite for blood offers delectable plot twists.
From a production standpoint, Audrey II (that's the plant) is a technological marvel. This hydraulically powered one could hardly be more lifelike. Over time, Audrey II grows to a massive size. As it towers over its human caretakers, one can easily see how it manages to gulp them down, one by one. While younger kids may not pick up on references to "Heddy Lamar" or the irony of someone longing for a "big, enormous 12-inch (TV) screen," there's enough bloody action to keep them interested throughout.
