As Temecula Valley Players’ “Little Shop Of Horrors” approaches its remaining shows at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, opportunities to enjoy the production are going fast. The show is directed by Kevin Clark, musically directed by Samantha Maxwell, and choreographed by Peter Varvel.
Released in 1986, the Broadway classic tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a flower shop assistant, who yearns for the affection of his co-worker Audrey. Tragically, she’s stuck in an abusive relationship with a dentist named Dr. Orin Scrivello. Seymour finds a plant that feasts upon human blood, one he names after Audrey. The flower shop garners much attention from the public, because of Audrey II. But as its desire for flesh grows, Seymour must figure out how to feed it, but also stop it from getting too powerful.
Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman are responsible for composing the musical. They are mainly known for helping establish the formula upon which Disney Animation Studios would base their most cherished classics on. It was their talents in composition that kicked off the Disney Renaissance, bringing so many songs that are adored by generations. Ashman was a beloved playwright, and stage director, who wrote a variety of shows. “Smile” is one of them, which is still performed throughout the country today. In 1991, during the early production of Disney’s “Aladdin,” Ashman died after being diagnosed with AIDS.
Temecula Valley Players’ production features Andrew Landeros as Seymour Krelborn, Meg Morris as Audrey, Wyatt Mitchison-Rojas as Dr. Orin Scrivello, Jason Gonzalez as Mr. Mushnik, and Kit Fortier as the voice of Audrey II. While the plant’s puppeteer is Katelyn Herbert. Countless more, and equally capable individuals, are featured within the cast, helping to elevate the production to delightful heights.
Clark expressed how he has always found theater and the arts to be astonishing mediums that are capable of sharing meaningful stories. Stories that are not only meant to shock audiences, but to make them ponder long after its conclusion. He believed that audiences should leave the theater with something they didn’t initially arrive with, and shares how this show is no different. He considers “Little Shop of Horrors” to be a classic, with a wacky story, fun music and quirky characters originally made famous by the 1986 film.
Regarding the production’s central themes, Clark shares how “this story, at its heart, is about the dangers of greed and avarice.” It’s about “how this slippery slope can very quickly, and without warning consume us, and how even with good intentions we can easily pave our own path to destruction.” He hopes those who see the show are sent home laughing and crying, from having enjoyed the talent that is on the stage, and behind the curtain. Talent that he claims is necessary to create their distinct experience.
Clark expressed how it’s been an immense pleasure to bring this show to Temecula Community Theater’s stage, and extended a warm thank you to various members of the cast, crew, production team, and TVP’s board. Additionally, he thanked Maxwell, who he considers to be a vocal genius, and Varvel, whose love for the show is “infectious,” and something that shows through greatly in his choreography.
Clark also praised stage manager Kristina Jackson’s organization and professionalism, and Herbert, who he expresses to be his closest confidant and a constant support in his life. Clark’s admiration for all those involved in the show cannot be understated. Tickets can be found at https://tickets.temeculatheater.org/ and upcoming shows from Temecula Valley Players are located at https://temeculavalleyplayers.com/.
Ava Sarnowski can be reached by email at valleystaff@reedermedia.com.
