Little Shop of Horrors Opens This Week
Excitement is growing as the hit broadway musical Little Shop of Horrors prepares to open this Thursday at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson.
Performances are on October 25, 26 and 27 at 7pm. October 28 at 2pm. Halloween Costume Contest Show on October 31 at 7pm, November 2 and 3 at 7pm. November 4 at 2pm. The production is rated PG13 – Parental guidance suggested for younger patrons.
Produced by Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy, this is the 8th major theatre production to be presented by the Branson Regional Arts Council since they moved into the Historic Owen Theatre in January 2018. As producers, they have been extremely busy bringing in new talent to act and direct, along with the many areas of production, sound, lighting, props, costumes, and set design. Lisa Murphy stated, “We are thrilled to have such wonderful people that share our vision for bringing live musical theatre to our community. They spend countless hours working to create a quality production for your viewing pleasure.”
A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, and Aladdin) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world.
The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” – after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination!
The show is under the direction of Jordan Alexander-Holt, who also choreographed the entire production. Jordan stated, “This play has endured and thrived due to it’s universality and the fact that, despite its fantastical events, audiences get to see themselves, or at least part of themselves, in Seymour’s mild-mannered love for Audrey: in Audrey’s kind sweetness despite heartbreaking circumstances; Mushnick’s greed and desire for advancement; and maybe, if we’re honest, even a little of Orin’s self assured violence and desire for control.”
Doo-Wop Girls & Audrey – Photo: Meadows Images
“This will be the biggest production of all the shows we’ve produced to date this year, with 8 public performances,” said Jim Barber, Branson Regional Arts Council’s Executive Director. “As area residents and local businesses become aware of what we are doing, we are seeing more and more interest from folks wanting to get involved,” Barber added. “We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Richard Tallon and the great folks at Branson Dental Center (417Dentist.com) have stepped up to co-sponsor this production. Pardon the pun, but it’s like pulling teeth to find a great production partner, and Branson Dental Center had no hesitation to become our “Center Stage Sponsor” assisting us to pay for the performance rights and music licensing of this popular production. They believe in what the Branson Regional Arts Council is doing for our community, and want to see our efforts prosper and grow in the future!”
Cast members starring in the production are: Matthew James (Seymour Krelborn), Amelia Harper (Audrey), Sean Neal Myers (Mr. Mushnick), Michael Horn (Orin Scrivello D.D.S.), James Allen (Audrey II puppetteer/Snip/Ensemble), Kyle Bradley (Voice of Audrey II/Ensemble), Kellsey Bradley (Crystal), Emily Alphin (Ronnette), Cadence Miller (Chiffon), Jonathan Kirkland (Radio Host/Bernstein/Ensemble), Stanna Brown (Mrs. Luce/Ensemble), and Kayleigh Dominish (Customer/Ensemble). Jeremy James is the creative artist behind the series of animated Audrey II plants, as well as the Technical Director for the production. Audrey II plant illustration for the Playbill and set is by professional artist and BRAC volunteer Larry Waggoner.
Ticket will be available at the door for each performance, however the public is encouraged to select preferred seating in advance as shows may sell out beforehand. Visit BransonArts.org/tix to order tickets, or BransonArts.org/pass for information about 2019 BRAC Season Pass Discounts.
The Branson Regional Arts Council was founded in 1965 as the “Taney Arts Council,” and officially established 501 (c)(3) non-profit status as “Branson Arts Council, Inc.” in 1993.
Our mission is “to create exceptional artistic, cultural and educational opportunities for our community.”
Financial support is provided by BRAC members, theatre patrons, private donors, as well as additional grant support from the Missouri Arts Council and other organizations.
BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615
