On the boards at the New Candlelight Theatre is “Little Shop of Horrors.” The musical runs through October 30, and it’s worth seeing.
I have a soft spot for the Candlelight. It’s old-fashioned. It’s a barn. It’s friendly. And it’s a place that introduces young people to theater—and not just because there’s chocolate cake at the buffet table. The theater’s greatest attribute is its welcoming staff. Second is its Arden location. Professional or not, every cast member seems to put real heart into every performance.
In “Little Shop,” Seymour, a nerdy flower shop clerk played admirably by Peter Briccotto, is in love with his co-worker, the stereotypically scatterbrained blonde, Audrey. Kaylan Wetzel, who, in real life, is neither blonde nor scatterbrained, does the role justice. (You have to be very smart to play very dumb.) Seymour is an average florist, but finds that he excels at raising a large plant that happens to feed on human blood. This newfound talent, he thinks, will impress Audrey. The problem is that he’s feeding the plant his own blood, and he’s becoming too weak to function. He devises a sinister plan to keep the botanical wonder alive.
The Skid Row girls provide the musical narrative. Lindsay Mauck, Erienne Poole and Erica Scanlon Harr boast serious attitude and strong voices.
The score combines rock, doo-wop and Motown. I attended a Sunday matinee preview performance, and the show was well received. On the downside, the musical accompaniment could have been louder, but I suspect the crew has worked out the kinks.
This one gets a thumbs up.
Contact info: 475-2313, or www.ncp.art.officelive
