It came from outer space, probably... all you need to know is its name is Audrey II and it’s the star of the Cayman Drama Society’s new show, Little Shop of Horrors.
It, in this case, is a plant. Seymour Krelborn takes pity on the weak little thing, probably because he is a bit of a loser himself, and tries to nurse it back to health. However, Audrey II, named for Seymour’s love interest, has a dark secret. As Audrey II grows and grows, it craves more food. Problem is, the food it craves is, well, people.
What is a couple of unfortunate ‘accidents’ in the face of fame and fortune? It’s a decision Seymour has to make.
From the 60s style rock music to the darkly funny story line, the musical is a classic.
Theatre veteran Neil Rooney will take on the role of Audrey II and looks forward to returning to his roots, so to speak.
“Actually, I played mostly plants during my early career, as one does... I fear that maybe this means my skills are slipping,” he says.
Of course, this is a much more meaty role than most of the foliage Neil has given life to during his early stage career, and playing the insatiable plant is a role he feels he can really sink his teeth into.
“It has renewed my appetite for community theatre,” he says.
Fortunately Neil didn’t have to look far for inspiration when it came to getting into the psyche of Audrey II.
“I just have to put myself in the place of the plants I have at home – neglected, underfed, unappreciated. It feeds my angst,” he says.
Of course, not all the actors are thrilled at being upstaged by a plant.
“I’m outraged,” laughs Rory Mann, who plays Seymour.
“Well... it’s a given really, isn’t it? I think anyone taking on the part of Seymour, or any character in the play for that matter, is aware who the real star of the show is. The plant is absolutely fantastic, as are Cody Moore who operates it and Neil Rooney who is the voice. They’ve worked tirelessly together creating a seamless technique that really brings the plant to life.”
As for getting into character, Rory had get into the character of a born loser. Did it take hard work or could he look for inspiration close to home?
“I guess it would depend on who you speak to... let’s say it didn’t come as a challenge!” he laughs.
As for what makes the musical a hit, it might be the music, it might be the comedy, but Rory believes it is quite simple.
“Let’s face it... it’s not every day you get to see someone fed to a bloodthirsty, singing plant,” he says.
Sheree Ebanks, the director, says the only reason it has taken the Drama Society so long to do Little Shop is the technical challenge of getting Audrey II in place. Fortunately the team found a scene shop is Massachusetts, JaDuke Scene Shop, that was able to help them get everything in place.
The production will also featureKristina Horaceck as Audry, Peter Kosa as Mr. Mushnik and Dominic Wheaton as the sadistic dentist Orin.
The production will open with a pay as you can night on 18 November. No reservations will be accepted, and donations will be taken in before and after the show. WH
Tickets for the regular shows are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 12.
Dates:Friday, 19 November – 7pm
Saturday, 20 November – 7pm
Sunday, 21 November – 3pm
Friday, 26 November – 7pm
Saturday, 27 November – 7pm
Sunday, 28 November – 3pm
Thursday, 2 December – 7pm
Friday, 3 December – 7pm
Sunday, 5 December – 3pm
Friday, 10 December – 7pm
Saturday, 11 December – 7pm
Sunday, 12 December – 3pm
For reservation call 949-5054 and for more information, visit
cds.ky