Loreto College’s recent musical extravaganza performance of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ left the audiences hungry for more!

Produced and performed entirely by students, this production dazzled audiences with heartfelt displays of musical, vocal, and all-around acting talent.

The cast and crew’s adaptation of the book by Howard Ashman and beloved cult-classic 1986 movie was jampacked with ethical dilemmas, horror, and heartbreak.

It’s a tall order for a young group of people to take on, but the outrageously talented performers of Loreto College made it look effortless.

For those of you who have been living under a plant pot all this time, Little Shop of Horrors follows the skittish Seymour, an orphaned flower shop assistant working for the miserly Mr. Mushnik, while secretly pining for his sweet and insecure co-worker Audrey. One night, Seymour discovers a “strange and interesting” plant he names ‘Audrey II’, who has a very unusual appetite…

The performance opens with dramatic, dreary lighting which sets the scene of the impoverished streets of Skid Row. The ensemble plays a key role in creating a dismal atmosphere which is quickly juxtaposed by the fast-paced, upbeat entrance of the Ronettes as the prologue begins. The Ronettes, a powerful group of vocalists and dancers, struck a perfect balance between engaging with the cast and maintaining their role as narrators, all while delivering their well-balanced 60s-style harmonies.

At the heart of the musical is the infamously demanding, smart-mouthed flytrap, Audrey II “Feed me, Seymour!” Orchestrated by puppeteer Oskar Smith and voiced by the vocally outstanding Harry McMahon. This show-stealing character had audiences erupting in laughter at Harry’s comedic remarks. His ability to blend horror and comedy seamlessly was a highlight of the night.

Seymour, played by Samuel, was everything we needed in a musical hero, captivating the audience with his deeply sympathetic portrayal. His duets were particularly impressive, showing a strong emotional and vocal connection with co-star Suzannah Ford. This built up to a moment of true awe in ‘Suddenly Seymour,’ where both performers showcased their outstanding talent in a heartfelt portrayal of love and realization.

Audrey, played by the wonderfully talented Suzannah Ford, brought touching sincerity to her role paired with her sensational vocal performances. Her rendition of ‘Somewhere that’s Green’ was a standout moment, as she perfectly conveyed Audrey’s bittersweet dreams of a better life.

Luca played the failing shop owner Mr Mushnik. His amusing performance erupts into something altogether more chaotic and hysterical in his rendition of ‘Mushnik and Son’, a duet with Seymour that reflects the easy camaraderie among the cast members.

Libby delivered one of the most painfully hilarious performances as the evil dentist, Orin Scrivello. The audience were in fits of laughter at her impeccable comedy when transforming scenes of true horror into moments that would lead the audience on the edge of their seats especially during her farcical death in ‘Now (It’s Just the Gas)’.

 

The production team were a vital part in the effortless running of the musical. Lighting and sound transitions were both prompt and seamless, keeping the story flowing effortlessly.

The backstage crew worked swiftly and carefully to handle the many set changes, ensuring the magic of the ever-growing Audrey II remained intact.

Of course, no musical would be complete without its band. The live student band played a crucial role in elevating the production, making it impossible to imagine the show without them as they brought energy and depth to every number.

This is a fantastic start to the theatrical season at Loreto College, promising more terrifyingly terrific shows to come.

Be sure to grab your tickets before they’re all eaten up!