I recently visited the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich to see one of my favourite shows, Little Shop of Horrors. I was not expecting the show to be as fantastic as it was. There was not a weak actor or song in the entirety of this production. This specific show was also audio described, and I truly believe that more performances should be. Not only does it make theatre a far more accessible experience, but it is also no hindrance to those who are not using it. Also, after asking around, it seems that it can also be helpful to those less familiar with the show, because if you ever missed a line, you could refer to the screen, allowing the fullest experience for all.
I have to start by mentioning the wonderful theatre that this production took place in. It was really well designed, allowing any seat in the auditorium to have a good view. As well as having really friendly staff members. I initially had no idea how professional this performance would feel, as most of the shows that I have seen have been on the West End. This made my journey from Brighton to Ipswich quite far to go. Especially when I didn't know how good the production was going to be, I am ecstatic to say that this has made it into the top 3 of my favourite productions that I have seen to date. This production really utilised an intimate auditorium and a small cast that certainly put quality over quantity. The fantastic Matthew Ganley not only played Orin in all his horrid and hilarious glory but also played around six other smaller roles to the same outstanding quality. Oliver Mawdsley played Seymour fantastically, capturing his questionable moral compass while always ensuring his heart is in the right place. The wonderful Laura Jane Matthewson played Audrey, and in a comedic show, it is difficult for the most emotionally loaded character to hit right; however, she achieved it seemingly effortlessly.
I then, of course, have to mention one of the most integral aspects of Little Shop of Horrors: puppeteering. Audrey II was brought to life by the voice of Anton Stephans, who had the perfect rich and animated voice for our favourite carnivorous plant. In combination with the amazing puppeteer Matthew Heywood, who added nuance and comedy to every movement. I am really glad to have seen this, as it is one of my favourite shows that I never thought I would be able to see, let alone in such a wonderful environment. As soon as I walked in, I knew that my journey to get there was worth it. Due to the level of attention to detail in the set, By having the newspaper written about the total eclipse that Seymour talks about foreshadowed by Mr. Mushnik (played by the incredible Andrew Whitehead), reading it early on in the show was just one of the many details that made this show such a joy. Along with the fluidity of prop movement, that really made me appreciate how much detail had been put into the rehearsals and design of the production. For example, one of the many props was a plant atomizer. This was moved around seven times to different shelves and cupboards, but every single time it was next needed, it was exactly where it was expected to be. Despite wherever it was put down, looking entirely random. This stage choreography really adds to how polished a performance feels, and I would without a doubt go and see another production at the New Wolsey.
Also, having Chiffon, Crystal, and Ronette all individually singing backup, narrating, and playing music really added to the atmosphere and personality of the show. Also making them feel like an entrance to the story for the audience by having them be both characters and narrators. This breaking of the fourth wall really draws in the audience and allows you to become completely absorbed in the story telling and characters. They were played by Janna May, Zweyla Mitchell Dos Santos, and Chardai Shaw, who were all breath-taking singers and brilliant choices for the roles.
Overall, I am very grateful to have seen such a brilliant production of Little Shop of Horrors. Even though this specific production has ended now, I would without a doubt urge you to visit the New Wolsey Theatre if given the chance, because it has proven to be a fantastic theatre, and I can't wait to keep an eye out for its future productions. As well as seeing what the cast members of this outstanding show end up doing in the future.
-image from the New Wolsey Theatres website, of Oliver Mawdsley as Seymour and Laura Jane Matthewson as Audrey.
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