By Gabriella Adaway, Third Year Theatre and Performance
On Thursday 12th March I got the chance to watch another one of Musical Theatre Bristol's sold-out shows, Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Joe Balls.
After the triumph of Alice by Heart in the Loco Klub for MTB last year (produced by Joe Balls) Little Shop of Horrors was in for a tough comparison and yet, much like most of MTB's productions, Little Shop did not disappoint, in actual fact, it astounded. A sold-out show completed by mesmerising talent. Little Shop of Horrors has become something of a cult classic, an unlikely success for a musical that follows Seymour’s (played by Coby Granek) creation of Audrey II, a peculiar plant that relies on human blood to remain alive, and the tragedies that follow thereafter. And yet, this musical encapsulates humour, love and how far someone will go for success.
Granek is particularly astounding in his performance of Seymour, a meek and awkward man so brilliantly executed not only by the sheer power of his voice but also the level of detail in his portrayal. Two of the standout numbers in the show included Granek, ‘Mushnik and Son’ and the ever so famous ‘Suddenly Seymour’, because of his ability to harmonise his voice and integrate his stage presence to match his partner. Sophie Lee who played Aubrey was a faultless performer whose charm, and truly beautiful voice matched the role of Audrey exquisitely. In this, Seren Clayton stood out with her charisma and clear understanding of how such a loud and bold character like Mrs Mushnik can be performed with such humour and captivity.
Additionally, who would have thought a person and a plant could have so much charisma together? In the early stages of the creation of Audrey II, when the plant was represented by a smaller version, cleverly placed so that an actor could be under the table and bring it to life. It was such an exciting move from the stage design and direction that truly enhanced the character of Audrey II. As the plant grew and the show progressed, Balls used the ensemble to create the plant, a sensual and alluring representation led by the astounding Sophia Christofi. Whilst the whole cast performed to an exceptional standard there were a few standouts in the ensemble worth noting – Maddi Jabir, Sadie Laddie, Amy Chapman and Georgina Walker were amongst those whose skills in performing multiple roles throughout the musical were so absorbing to watch.
Bringing to life such a well-known and well-loved musical is no easy feat, with songs and characters that anyone would recognise. Joe Balls has done a marvellous job of bringing this world alive on the Loco Klub stage that was engaging from all angles. And a bold choice in putting on a musical that revolves around a life-sized plant. Delivered on all fronts, the show goes beyond being an amalgamation of triple threats but truly engulfs the audience.
When you are watching shows such as Little Shop of Horrors and being taken in by the performance it’s easy to forget how much extraordinary work goes into a production of this quality and size. From the costumes to the choreography to the incredible music from the band, work that is seen on the stage but not the people behind it, should be celebrated and appreciated in the same way. Charlotte Musselle (choreographer), Isobel Black (vocal director), Millie Butterworth (producer) and Tom Roberts (musical director) are just a few of the team who make up the incredible production team and deserve as much praise for putting on such a wonderful show.
Featured images: MTB / Isabel Hay @isabelrosehay
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