Little Shop of Horrors, a musical based on a 1960 Roger Corman film, is making a comeback on local stages. Music Theater Works is currently staging the production, directed by Kyle A. Dougan, and while it may not be groundbreaking, it offers a seasonal camp fest for audiences to enjoy. The trio of Skid Row singers, played by China Orr, Michaela Dukes, and Kiana Beverly, stand out with their terrific pipes and comic timing as they narrate the tale of Seymour and Audrey.
The story follows Seymour, played by Jimmy Hogan, who creates a man-eating plant named Audrey II in hopes of winning the heart of Audrey, played by Kayla Shipman. The show addresses darker elements of abuse and neglect, with Shipman bringing a mix of sadness and humor to her role as Audrey. The production also features strong choreography by Reneisha Jenkins and impressive puppeteer work by Alex Villaseñor.
Despite some cringeworthy moments played for laughs, the overall interpretation of Little Shop of Horrors is solid and enjoyable. Fans of musical comedy with a sci-fi/horror twist will find this production to be a good seasonal choice. The show’s eye-popping ending and charming performances make it a worthwhile experience for theater enthusiasts.
In addition to Music Theater Works’ staging of Little Shop of Horrors, there are other theater productions in Chicago worth checking out. Paramount’s version of the musical offers a deeper exploration of the story, while Carousel at Music Theater Works provides a blend of old-fashioned charm and contemporary relevance. The touring musical adaptation of Some Like It Hot brings gender fluidity to the forefront, and The Factory’s production of Inheritance tackles generational trauma in a compelling way.
Overall, Chicago’s theater scene continues to offer a diverse range of productions for audiences to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of classic musicals or innovative interpretations of familiar stories, there’s something for everyone in the city’s vibrant theater community. Explore the latest shows and support local artists as they bring captivating performances to life on stage.
