Southeast Missouri State University brings 'Little Shop of Horrors' to life

With one week until opening night, Southeast Missouri State University's Department of Theatre and Dance is in final preparations for the performance of "Little Shop of Horrors" in the Bedell Performance Hall.

One of the longest running off-Broadway musicals, "Little Shop of Horrors" tells the tale of a flowershop owner whose business finally picks up after he purchases an unusual plant -- one that requires human blood to survive. The flora -- which turns out to be from outer space -- grows to be quite out of hand and the little shop must deal with it. The play does involve adult themes and language. Choose your date wisely.

In keeping with the show's plant store theme, Southeast's horticulture club will be selling plants in the lobby before the show and during intermission.

"The cast is small, with only eight of us," said Phillip Newman, who plays the role of Seymour. "It's the most fun I've had doing a musical, and the cast is really a family. Everyone has been so cooperative and hard working."

Newman first saw the movie version of "Little Shop of Horrors" with his dad when he was 7 and said he has been obsessed with it since. He said playing this role is a dream come true.

Judith Farris, Southeast alumna and vocal director for the production, said she is confident in her students' abilities.

"We were thrilled with the auditions, having at least 10 different students competing for each role," she said. "I am very proud of how this program has grown in the last four years, and we hope that the community will embrace the wonderful productions that this department puts on."

"The hardest thing to do with 'Little Shop of Horrors' is to find that balance between B-movie campiness and legitimate acting to get the story across," Newman said. "You don't want to be too over the top, but at the same time, you must be an active entertainer."

Southeast Missouri State University students can see the opening night production free and get food, as well. Commerce Bank has purchased 200 tickets in advance for Wednesday's show, and students can pick up as many tickets as they want at the University Bookstore on campus. "We will also be serving pizza and soda after the performance for the students who come," said Heather Mastropierro, branch manager at Commerce Bank.

The show opens Wednesday and runs through Oct. 4. Tickets are available from the River Campus box office or at 651-2265. Tickets are $19 for the orchestra and lower balcony and $16 for the mezzanine and upper balcony.