Little Shop of Horrors Review: A Mixed Bouquet at Northern Stage
This review evaluates the Northern Stage and Derby Theatre revival of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’s 1982 musical, Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Sarah Brigham. The production maintains the original’s charming low-budget B-movie aesthetic rather than adopting a modern high-tech approach. While described as a solid but not sparkling production, it features strong vocal performances and playful design elements. Notably, the staging pioneers the use of creative, integrated captions for accessibility, designed by Ben Glover. The role of the carnivorous plant, Audrey II, is split between puppeteer Ross Lennon and off-stage vocalist Tasha Dowd. Lead actors Kristian Cunningham (Seymour) and Amena El-Kindy (Audrey) deliver powerful performances, though the review notes this version is slightly lighter on humor and scales back sensitive plot points like domestic abuse. Designer Verity Quinn’s petal pink and stem green palette reinforces the plant’s thematic dominance. Overall, the review highlights the production's successful blend of kooky romance, doo-wop music, and accessible innovation.
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