Cupcake Theater is NoHo's newest theatre and is dedicated to doing musicals, which is no easy task. Cupcake Theater's first musical in NoHo was "Avenue Q" and, when they opened "Little Shop of Horrors," it was time to check it out.
For those of you that are not already a cult fan, "Little Shop of Horrors" is a horror comedy rock musical by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman, about a hapless flower shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. The music, composed by Menken in the style of early 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and early Motown, includes several well-known tunes, including the title song, "Skid Row (Downtown)," "Somewhere That's Green," and "Suddenly, Seymour."
Director Ezra Weisz was able to make this show funny, heartfelt and wildly entertaining. Even though I have seen "Little Shop of Horrors" many times, including Off Broadway, this production was a reminder of how much a good musical can bring pleasure to all your senses. Music Director Nick Petrillo and Choreographer Jarek Stultz stayed true to the spirit of the show using the unmistakable 60s magic in both the music and dance. Singers, Shayla Hudson-Williams, Desi Dennis-Dylan and Dominque Kent rivaled the Chiffons but with voices that were better! The Skid Row Band added what only a good live band can do.
I ticked off all three boxes for Thomas Adoue Polk who played Seymour Krelbourn (Floral Assistant) - great acting, singing and could move. Audrey, played by Rhonda Karson, made the audience embrace this lovable character and what a beautiful voice. David Callander played flower shop owner Mr. Mushnik was charming and had great comedic skill with a twist of evil. The sadistic dentist played skillfully by Matt Merchant got the audience up in a roar. We can't forget about the evil plant from outer space brought to life by puppeteer Nathan Stephenson and Jokull Jonsson, the voice of Audrey 11. Applauds also to Narrator Voiceover Richard Epcar and Ms. Luce played by Adam Conn.
Don't miss this Off-Broadway sensation that has been popular for more than 30 years. Great enjoyment for families and fans of musicals. I have to thank producer Michael Pettenato for putting a brilliant jewel in the crown of NoHo theatre. Show runs through October 29.
Cupcake Theater
11020 Magnolia Blvd (at Vineland)
For Tickets: www.cupcaketheater.com
323 391-3416