Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’s Little Shop of Horrors holds a special place in my heart, blending sci-fi, horror, comedy, and rock and roll into one unforgettable package. With songs by the award-winning duo behind the soundtracks of The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast, it’s no wonder this musical has become a favourite for so many—including myself. Loosely inspired by the 1960s black comedy film, the musical’s popularity skyrocketed with the 1986 movie adaptation, featuring Rick Moranis and Ellen Greene. That film was my first introduction to this quirky, cautionary tale, and I’ve probably watched it more times than I can count. Over the years, I’ve also had the joy of seeing the stage show twice during its 2009 and 2016 UK tours.
Sheffield Theatres’ bold and darker take on this iconic story, directed by Amy Hodge, is the latest reinvention—and one that captures the grit and urgency of modern times.
In this version, skid row isn’t just a distant New York concept—it’s a reflection of a contemporary UK city, with all the grit and desperation that entails. Seymour Krelborn, a downtrodden flower shop assistant, discovers a mysterious plant that brings him fame and fortune but at a sinister cost. As Seymour’s life spirals into murder and chaos, the production delves into the psychological horror at the story’s core, amplifying its themes of greed, domestic abuse, and moral compromise.
This reinterpretation embraces the darkness beneath the humour. While traditional productions might lean into camp and frivolity, Hodge’s vision adds weight and consequence to the narrative. The result is a show that challenges audiences to confront the bleak realities beneath its toe-tapping score.
Georgia Lowe’s set design is visually arresting, bringing skid row to life with vivid detail. From grimy wheelie bins hiding surprises to a revolving stage that transforms the Crucible’s thrust into a bustling urban landscape, the production is a feast for the eyes. The shadowy backdrops, paired with Jessica Hung Han Yun’s evocative lighting, establish an atmosphere of foreboding that lingers throughout the show.
Chris Poon’s musical direction elevates Menken’s score to new heights. Songs like “Skid Row (Downtown)” gain fresh emotional depth through stripped-back harmonies and poignant orchestrations by Matthew Jackson. Jade Hackett’s contemporary choreography blends seamlessly with the music, especially in ensemble numbers where movement mirrors the rising tension. The costumes, particularly for the street urchins (played by Lizzy Rose Esin Kelly, Paige Fenlon, and Charlotte Jaconelli), evolve brilliantly—from simple white ensembles to glittering, gold-accented glamour—charting the characters’ descent into greed.
Georgina Onuorah’s Audrey is a revelation. Her heartfelt rendition of “Somewhere That’s Green” is a spine-tingling highlight, showcasing both her vocal prowess and her ability to convey raw vulnerability. Colin Ryan’s Seymour, with his Brummie accent, grounds the production in authenticity, delivering a performance that is both charming and heartbreakingly naive.
Wilf Scolding’s Orin is a deliciously unhinged presence, blending menace with absurd humour. His day-glo antics and huffing fits provide some of the show’s most memorable comic moments, contrasting sharply with the bleakness elsewhere. Sam Buttery’s Audrey II is an inspired choice, with the plant’s growing menace reflected in his powerhouse vocals and chilling stage presence. The decision to depict the plant through a combination of puppetry and human performers adds an innovative layer to the production.
Michael Matus as Mr. Mushnik delivers impeccable comic timing, particularly in “Mushnik and Son,” while the ensemble work—especially the choreography—keeps the energy high even in the darkest moments.
Sheffield’s Little Shop of Horrors is a daring reimagining that trades campy charm for raw emotional intensity. With its outstanding cast, inventive staging, and a score that soars under Chris Poon’s direction, this production breathes new life into a beloved classic. Hodge’s interpretation doesn’t just entertain; it provokes, offering a chilling reminder of the cost of unchecked ambition and the darkness that can lurk within us all. This Little Shop is a must-see for fans eager to experience a fresh and fearless take on a timeless story—a production that is as bold as it is brilliant.
Little Shop of Horrors is running at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield until Saturday 18th January 2025, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
Photo Credit - Manuel Harlan.
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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