The Crucible Theatre’s vibrant revival of Little Shop of Horrors breathes new life into this beloved cult musical, blending sharp humour, innovative design, and pitch-perfect performances. Under Amy Hodge’s masterful direction, the production balances its dark, absurdist edge with a riotous sense of fun, resulting in a show that captivates from start to finish.

From the very start, the three streetwise narrators (Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly, Paige Fenlon, and Charlotte Jaconelli) set the tone with powerful harmonies, reminiscent of a rock and roll girl group. Their performance elevates the show’s beloved score by Alan Menken and adds an operatic richness to the grimy streets of Skid Row, where Audrey and Seymour are doing whatever they can to keep Mr Mushnik’s failing flower shop alive, including dabbling in some experimental horticulture..

Photos credit. Manuel Harlan

The cast excels across the board. Colin Ryan brings an endearing awkwardness to Seymour, whose earnestness and desperation are as heartwarming as they are tragic. Georgina Onuorah is radiant as Audrey, delivering a stunning rendition of “Somewhere That’s Green” that captures her character’s dreams with tender vulnerability. The chemistry between Ryan and Onuorah is touching, grounding the outlandish story in genuine emotion.

Wilf Scolding’s portrayal of the sadistic dentist Orin is an uproarious highlight. From his dramatic leather-jacketed entrance to his hilariously macabre appointments, his devilish swagger walks a fine line between comedic and menacing, making him a villain you love to hate.

A standout feature of this production is its spectacular re-imagining of Audrey II, the ever-growing carnivorous plant. Sam Buttery’s commanding “Feed Me” fills the stage with a menacing vitality, aided by Daisy Beattie and Seb Mayer’s puppet creations alongside Georgia Lowe’s ingenious stage design.

Chris Poon’s fabulous direction of the nine-piece band, paired with fresh orchestrations by Matthew Jackson, gives the classic score a vibrant new energy.

Hodge’s direction embraces the quirky spirit of Howard Ashman’s book and lyrics, weaving in surprises at every turn. Details like the shadow play in the prologue and wheelie bins concealing characters fill the production with character. The costuming combined with Jade Hackett’s choreography helps the absurdity reach fever pitch during moments like the Argentine tango between Mushnik (played with comedic brilliance by Michael Matus) and Seymour, complete with flamboyant matadors, and The Meek Shall Inherit in which Seymour makes a deal with the literal devil.

With a perfect mix of hilarity, horror, and heartfelt moments, this Little Shop of Horrors revival reaffirms the timeless appeal of this quirky musical gem.

Little Shop of Horrors is at The Crucible until 18th January 2025, find out more here: https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/little-shop-of-horrors