Review: LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Thrills Edmonton

Life is anything but rosy for downtrodden flower shop worker, Seymour. He lives and works in the derelict Skid Row, his boss is always crabby, and his long-time coworker crush struggles to leave her abusive relationship. Nothing seems to change- that is, until he suddenly acquires a strange and interesting-looking plant that has an appetite for human blood. 

Like its humble protagonist, Little Shop of Horrors has blossomed from its offbeat 1986 film origin. Now, it is a much-adored cinematic and theatric staple alongside other campy classics including The Rocky Horror Show. This acclaim was well reflected at The Citadel Theatre’s 2023/2024 season announcement party and at its sold-out opening night performance. Directed by Ashlie Corcoran, this playful adaptation stars a small, robust cast of Western Canadian triple threats.

It is impossible not to root for the adorkable Seymour (Tenaj Williams). He quickly endears himself to the audience and to his sweet and flighty co-worker, Audrey (Synthia Yusuf). The pair’s rendition of the iconic duet, Suddenly Seymour, is surprisingly poignant and among the show’s many highlights. They share the stage with their grumpy boss, Mr. Mushnik (Ashley Wright), and the trio of charming doo-wop girls/ensemble members: Crystal (Ali Watson), Ronnette (Rochelle Laplante), and Chiffon (Ivy Charles). The audience’s excitement is nearly palpable when the trio first arrive on stage to perform the infectiously catchy opener, Little Shop of Horrors.  

Though the bloodthirsty plant (affectionately named Audrey II) is the obvious villain, the musical has another evil and insatiable character: the human Audrey's abusive boyfriend, Dr. Orin Scrivello D.D.S. et all (John Ullyatt). Dressed head to toe in slick black leather, he prowls onto the fog-shrouded stage to perform his infamous villain song, Dentist. His sadistic botanical counterpart is portrayed as a series of impressive puppets ranging from pint-sized to gargantuan. Madeleine Suddaby and Braydon Dowler-Coltman are the dynamic duo bringing Audrey II to life. Suddaby loans her impressive voice and Dowler-Coltman puppeteers the Venus Flytrap-like behemoth. 

It would be remiss not to mention the shabby but oddly striking set. Beyata Hackborn’s ramshackle designs feature looming, window-studded walls on either side of the stage and the central revolving piece that is Mushnik & Son’s flower shop. The latter’s cluttered interior boasts dull rainbows of wilting flowers, a black and white checkered floor, and grungy accordion blinds. The effect is so unexpectedly atmospheric that audiences can nearly smell the dust and the metallic tang of Audrey II’s gruesome diet. 

Little Shop of Horrors will delight die-hard fans and newcomers alike. Audiences have until November 19 to experience The Citadel’s surprisingly fresh take on this deliciously campy musical.  

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