Little Shop Characters...

I have had the opportunity to work on Little Shop of Horrors in several capacities over the past 14 years. I have designed the show three times (all different concepts), assistant directed the show once back in 1994, and have worked as the puppeteer and as an ensemble member of the cast. Being in these various production roles has allowed me to take a step back and see how the characters developed, what worked, and more importantly what didn't. Here are some things to look for in the characters of Little Shop of Horrors as I perceive them for our production.

Seymour: The main character. Many people think of Rick Moranis since he is the actor that portrayed Seymour in the movie production of LSOH. I believe that the character of Seymour should look nerdy and act klutzy. However, what truly motivates him is his love and concern for Audrey. Seymour has little to no people skills and is a major push-over. I think if Marc, you begin to embody the Rick Moranis character you have a good foundation for who Seymour really is. However, I think that for you, your feeling for Audrey and Audrey II should be the subtext for doing all the things that your character does throughout the play. I think that Marc, you should also work on being nebbish-like and insecure. You need to be naive and feel much put-upon by everyone else. And in spite of Seymour’s flaws, he should ultimately be a sweet and well-meaning little man.

Audrey: The female lead. Though traditionally her trademarks are her big blond hairdo and her high pitch New York accent, I think that it is who she is trying to embody that becomes significant. I think that Christel, you should work on developing a “big voice”, not necessarily vocally when it comes to singing; rather, when it comes to being the Audrey that we know and love. Take a look at people like Judy Holiday, Carol Channing, Mailyn Monroe and Goldie Hawn for personality, character, and demeanour; however, Audrey is lacking in education and self-esteem. She suffers from feelings of hopelessness at her situation in life, including her abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Orin Scrivello. Seymour names his plant after her. You should be very expressive with your face Christel, and remember that Audrey is ditsy, so comedic timing is a must. We will work on this this in character rehearsals.

Mr. Mushnik: The shop owner. George, for you…the character of Mr. Mushnik should also be very expressive and have a good New York Jewish accent. Take a look at the character Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. Also, start researching the various Yiddish terms that Mushnik uses. I think that to begin with, the more outrageous the "Jewish stereotype" is, the funnier the characters. He is really a vocally animated character and uses physicality’s to reinforce what he says…he talks with both his mouth and hands.

Orin Scrivello: The dentist, and Audrey's boyfriend. Again, many people think of Steve Martin since he is the actor that portrayed Orin in the movie production. Jarrel, for you, Orin should embody Elvis in voice and especially movement and/or poses. Your character, though not traditional in physicality, should still come across as a womanizer, but also someone that Seymour could look up to since you managed to snag Audrey as a girlfriend. I almost see a combination of Elvis, James Bond (Sean Connery), and the class bully. You also need to look over the various dental terms and find the things that would “turn Orin on” sexually when it came to his profession.

The Urchins (Ronette, Krystal, Chiffon): The Narrators of the story, kind of. The three women should be cool, slick, and be very much in tune with each other. The harmonies are tight and if the three of you can think "Dreamgirls" or “Temptations”, you will be fantastic. The girls open the show so it is important they set a good mood in their acting, harmonies, and volume. This will help carry them throughout the show. Though each of you should have a distinct personality, you must (all three of you) work together as a group to create the trio.

Audrey II: The man-eating plant. Miya, this is a whole different twist on the story for our production. What I think we need to emphasize is more of your relationship to Seymour, and yes…it can almost be a love interest for you. Seymour brought you up and took care of you, so I think you need to feel some obligation to help him break free of his naïve shell. In the process, I think that Audrey II develops feelings for Seymour, and is a bit jealous when it comes to Audrey. What I would love to see is a whole new take on Audrey II, in so much that the “feminine” voice actually allows the audience to sympathize with your character in her relationship with Seymour. And I do think, that we need to bring in some passion and animalistic lust for what Audrey II wants; both in terms of food and love from Seymour.

The Ensemble: You will all need to start analyzing your various characters and begin to separate each on of them vocally and physically. The audience will be aware of seeing you as various characters, but the more unique you make each of them; the more interesting it will be for us to see you in the various roles.

A place to watch for notes, share comments, etc.

I have created a BLOG to allow the cast to keep track of Director's notes or to share your comments and questions with me or other cast members. I created a BLOG for past productions and it appeared to be a great way to communicate with all members involved in the production. Make sure to join the BLOG so you too can participate.Tim