BWW Reviews: BroadHollow Has Another Hit with LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Theatre staple Little Shop of Horrors is the latest from Long Island's BroadHollow Theatre Company. Based on the 1960 film, writer Howard Ashman pens a heartfelt, albeit predictable, story. The comedy-horror-rock musical is about a florist employee who raises an extraordinary plant to help the ailing shop where he works.

Additionally, Alan Menken's score is a fun fusion of 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and Motown. You will probably be familiar with the score's popular tunes including the title song and "Suddenly, Seymour". BroadHollow's enjoyable incarnation runs at their Studio Theatre in Lindenhurst, Long Island, through May 24th.

The talented Joe Marshall directed cast superbly delivers in their performances. Long Island theatre vet Jeremy Hudson leads as the shy Seymour Krelborn, the creator of the carnivorous plant to boost his employer's business. In spite of his flaws, Seymour is a sweet and well-meaning man. Mr. Hudson was top notch in the role and sang the score well as he was in the majority of the show's numbers. He really made you root for Seymour as he tries to gain courage to pursue the affection of Audrey, his co-worker who he absolutely adores.

Samantha Meckes entertainingly portrays Audrey. Think Marilyn Monroe-esque with Fran Dresher's voice. You kind of feel for Audrey because she has the mentality she doesn't deserve good things in life. She lives on Skid Row, a rough and tough neighborhood, is abused by her boyfriend and doesn't think she deserves a good guy like Seymour. Ms. Mecke's comedic delivery was on point as the enthusiastic audience responded resoundingly.

Jeff Pangburn is a natural as Mr. Mushnik, the owner of the quaint flower shop where Audrey and Seymour work. Mushnik's angst balances well with Seymour's timid disposition. His caring side does come out as he eventually adopts the orphaned Seymour. Of course, that's when business starts booming due to the latest neighborhood attraction - the growing plant Seymour created.

Incidentally, the aging florist shop is the centerpiece of Bob Butterly's superb set. Additionally, the new venus flytrap type of plant Seymour creates comes to life operated by Rich Jimenez with Michael Newman providing the booming voice. Yes, the plant talks.

The most versatile performance came from Mark T. Cahill who portrays Orin Scrivello as well as other characters in the production. He is a leather-clad abuser boyfriend by night and a manic dentist by day. Basically, he likes to inflict pain on his patients. His hilarous facial expressions and schtick brought roars of laughter from the audience.

Ava Anise Adams, Tashi Thomas, and Angelica Webster also deliver absolutely stunning performances as The Urchins. Ms. Adams portrays Chiffon, Ms. Thomas portrays Crystal, and Ms. Webster portrays Ronette. The girls appear throughout the show to give a running commentary and also serve as our primary story-tellers. They address the audience at some points and are part of the story. They are sassy, smart, and their voices sound beautiful together as well as individually.

So it seems BroadHollow has another hit on their hands with Little Shop of Horrors. Is this fun and comical production consistently produced? Sure. But that doesn't for anyone mean to miss out on a well-executed show.

Little Shop of Horrors is presented by BroadHollow Theatre Company at Studio Theatre in Lindenhurst through May 24th. Book & Lyrics by Howard Ashman, Music by Alan Menken, Direction & Choreography by Joe Marshall, Scenic Design by bob Butterley, Lighting Design by Hemraj Budhram, Musical Direction by Joseph Mankowski, Costume Design by Jason Allyn, Stage Management by Alex Vartanian. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 226-8400 or visit www.broadhollow.org.

Photos by Janette Pelligrini.

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