YOUNG performers took the stage and gave an energetic performance of rock musical Little Shop of Horrors to a welcoming audience.
There were whoops and giggles as Walmsley Church AODS AKT told the tale of the hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. It is a show that many theatre lovers know well but it always manages to make people laugh whilst sending a shiver down the spine of those who watch it.
An audience at Parish Hall Theatre, Christ Church, Walmsley, were thrilled with Wednesday night’s opening performance which showcased some of the company’s fresh young talent. Immediately, heads were bobbing and feet were tapping (mine included) as the 30-plus cast burst onto the stage for musical opener, “Little Shop of Horrors”.
Next came “Skid Row (Downtown)”, which had me humming along and highlighted the powerful voice of 16-year-old Alex Close, playing the lead female role of Audrey. As well as her singing voice, which held the stage, Alex’s American accent was convincing and added to the authenticity of the character.
Josh Horn, also aged 16, plays the lead male role of Seymour, the hopeless shop keeper, desperately in love with Audrey and keen to rescue her from the violent clutches of her biker boyfriend, dentist Orin (Emily Davis).
Youngsters Zara Horn, Ella Tebay, Hannah Clarkson, Hannah Feakin, Bethany Leigh, Bethany Bentham play “The Ronnettes”, who keep the pace of the production with their endearing singing and dancing. Shop owner Mr Mushnik is played superbly by Alice Finn who gets the most laughs for her comedy portrayal of the character, her American accent and her movements on the stage. Connor Walker Collinson puts on a comedy accent and strong singing voice to play the blood-sucking plant.
The young stars are dedicated to their roles, rehearsing twice a week in the run up to the annual show whilst studying for school exams. A must see for all the family. Sarah Poole