Horror and hilarity meet in this campy classic musical comedy
Avon Players’ season ends with a beloved musical comedy that blends sci-fi, and horror, romance, and an electrifying pop/rock score. Little Shop of Horrors runs May 24-June 8.
Seymour Krelborn (Alex Pedica) is a meek and dejected assistant at the failing skid row floral shop owned by Mr. Mushnik (Tim Falk). When he’s not breaking things or pining for his co-worker Audrey (Amanda Murray), Seymour is learning about strange and unusual plants. During a surprise total eclipse, he stumbles upon the strangest plant of all, a form of flytrap that he affectionately names “Audrey II” after his crush. Quickly, the novelty of Seymour’s find leads to an uptick in business for the shop, but little does he know that this sentient plant will develop an unquenchable thirst for human blood! As Audrey II grows bigger and meaner, the carnivorous plant promises limitless fame and fortune to Seymour. But is Seymour’s change in luck worth the toll that feeding this monster takes on his psyche and soul?
Little Shop of Horrors is loosely based on the 1960 B-Movie The Little Shop of Horrors. The stage musical, which debuted off-Broadway in 1982, features music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman (whose other collaborations include Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast) in the style of early sixties rock and roll, doo-wop, and early Motown. The production won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical. It was adapted for the screen in the 1986 movie starring Rick Moranis as Seymour and Ellen Greene as Audrey, reprising the role after having played it off-Broadway and in London’s West End. Directed by Frank Oz, the film also featured a memorable performance by Steve Martin as sadistic dentist Orin Scrivello. A 2003 Broadway run earned University of Michigan graduate Hunter Foster a Tony nomination for the role of Seymour.
Director Chris Stepnitz believes Little Shop of Horrors has something for everyone to enjoy. “You can enjoy it on the level of homage to both the campy sci-fi movies of the 60s and the classic doo-wop music style of the era, and that alone is enough to recommend it,” Stepnitz said. “However, when you scratch just beneath the surface, you soon see that it’s a show with a lot of heart and humanity as well. The characters–Seymour especially–are underdogs. When his luck begins to change, we can’t help but root for Seymour, but we realize all too quickly the terrible cost that can come with being handed everything you want.”
Tickets for all shows are $30. Call 248-608-9077 for tickets or order online at www.AvonPlayers.org. Discounts on matinee tickets are available for seniors and students; call the box office for details. Additionally, group rates are available by calling the box office. “Like” Avon Players Theatre on Facebook for special offers on tickets. All major credit cards are accepted. All seats are reserved. Show dates and times follow:
- Friday, May 24 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, May 25 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday, May 26 2:00 p.m.
- Friday, May 31 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, June 1 8:00 p.m
- Sunday, June 2 2:00 p.m.
- Friday, June 7 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, June 8 8:00 p.m.
Avon Players is celebrating its 77th season of bringing quality entertainment to its community. Founded in 1947, Avon Players is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit community theatre located along the winding banks of Stoney Creek in the quaint Historic District of Rochester Hills, only about two miles from the heart of downtown Rochester. Avon Players has been performing shows in its unique A-frame theater since 1965. With ticket prices set at a fraction of those at professional theaters (plus free parking), a family of four can experience a sensational live theatrical event for about the cost of one ticket at a “downtown” venue. This season a trip to Avon Players can feel even more festive as alcohol will be sold at certain performances. And for regular theatregoers, an affordable outing can be an even better bargain by taking advantage of Avon Players’ season ticket packages, which yield discounts of up to 20% per ticket. Additionally, season ticket holders enjoy priority seating selection and voting privileges in Avon’s annual “Stoney Awards.” Additional information regarding tickets and productions is available by calling the Avon Players box office at 248-608-9077 or by visiting the website: www.AvonPlayers.org.
Cast and Production Staff by Community
Armada
- Ruby Amthor (“Crystal”)
- Tim Falk (“Mr. Mushnik”)
- Aidan Roberts (Puppeteer/Ensemble)
Clawson
- Chris Stepnitz (Director)
Clinton Township
- Patty Hagel (Costume Design)
- Amanda Murray (“Audrey”)
Grand Blanc
- Jason Briggs (Voice of “Audrey II”)
Macomb Township
- Sharon Jourdan (Properties Design)
New Baltimore
- Jon Carrothers (Music Director)
Oak Park
- Alex Pedica (“Seymour”)
Rochester
- Lana Hastings (Choreographer)
- Nick Kibler (Sound Design)
Rochester Hills
- John (JD) Deierlein (Lighting Design, Set Design)
- Skyley Janiszewski (“Orin”)
Romeo
- Kionna Dailey (“Ronette”)
Shelby Township
- Mark Palmer (Producer)
Sterling Heights
- Raven Ross (“Chiffon”)
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