PROVO — Call for tickets now because they're sure to go fast. One can't praise Provo Theatre Company enough for its current production of "Little Shop of Horrors."
With the perfect cast and an impressive set, this musical is enjoyable from beginning to end — a definite must-see. It is directed by Dave Tinney, who also acts as choreographer.
Created by the same composer and lyricist who provided songs for Disney's "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast," "Little Shop of Horrors" is set in a struggling floral shop on Skid Row. Its employees, Seymour (Josh Meurer) and Audrey (Kelly Fotheringham) long for a better life away from the difficulties of living downtown.
A new plant discovered by Seymour promises to deliver them. Dubbed "Audrey II" by Seymour, the plant grows to a remarkable size, attracting throngs of new customers. But a dark secret lies behind Seymour's success: the plant has a thirst for human blood, and Seymour is forced to satisfy its ever-increasing cravings. The music is done in a doo-wop style, full of energy and opportunities for vocalists to shine. PTC has found a strong, talented singer for every role.
Providing tight three-part harmony and a sort of Greek chorus for the show are Crystal, Chiffon and Ronnette (Marcie Jacobsen, Suzie Jacobsen and Jamie Kalama). The trio observes and comments on various events and takes on various bit parts. They perform exceptionally well, both as a group and as the women come forward for occasional solos.
Meurer is great as Seymour, the shy, awkward young man who sees fame and fortune ahead of him accompanied by a terrible price. He plays the range of emotions well, from his tender feelings for Audrey to his murderous intentions toward the plant he has created. David Barrus is exceptional as well in his role as Orin, the sadistic dentist and Audrey's abusive boyfriend. Barrus makes Orin strong and genuinely threatening, a character the audience loves to hate. He provides a great scene as he sings about his love of hurting things, which destined him for dentistry. Barrus also serves as musical director for this show.
It's difficult to imagine a more perfect casting find than Fotheringham for the part of Audrey. Her physical and vocal mannerisms — portraying a sweet and timid blonde with a past — are very well done, providing a strong character without being over the top.
While the show definitely has a dark side, it is full of laughs and extremely enjoyable music. It also has poignant, tender moments, brought out best by Fotheringham as her character sings "Somewhere That's Green." While favoring an arm injured in her boyfriend's most recent beating, Audrey sings of her dream of a perfect life in a small house, complete with a toaster and a washer and dryer. Although humorous in its way, the song is sad and tender as well, and the audience was enthralled by her performance. It was one of the best moments of the show.
Ward Wright offers an enjoyable Mushnik, owner of the floral shop. Daniel Law provides the plant's voice, and puppeteer Paul Johnson works hard to bring an impressively large plant puppet to life.
Scenery designer Russ Richins has created a set done all in grays to emphasize the dreariness of living on Skid Row. It provides an excellent backdrop for the show and emphasizes change as the characters bring on more flowers and begin to dress more colorfully, in line with their newly discovered prosperity.
It is a treat to attend a show where all the voices and performances are strong and equally enjoyable. Don't miss this opportunity to attend a high-quality, well-performed musical.