In the annals of musical theater, few productions have evoked such a peculiar blend of macabre humor and haunting melodies as "A Little Shop of Horrors." The show, which premiered Off-Broadway in 1982, tells the tale of Seymour Krelborn, a timid florist who stumbles upon a mysterious plant with an insatiable appetite for human flesh.
Origins and Inspiration
The seed for "A Little Shop of Horrors" was planted in the mind of Roger Corman, the prolific director of low-budget horror films. Inspired by the 1960 movie "The Little Shop of Horrors," Corman approached composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman to create a musical adaptation.
The Ensemble
The cast of "A Little Shop of Horrors" includes a diverse array of characters:
* Seymour Krelborn: The hapless florist who unwittingly becomes the servant of the plant * Audrey Fulquard: Seymour's love interest, a dental assistant with a masochistic streak * Mr. Mushnik: Seymour's miserly boss * Audrey II: The carnivorous plant, voiced by Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops * The Ronettes: A Greek chorus of street urchins
Challenges and Controversies
Despite its cult following, "A Little Shop of Horrors" has not been without its detractors. Some critics have found the show's subject matter too gruesome, while others have dismissed it as a campy diversion.
The show has also faced legal challenges. In 1985, the estate of Jack Nicholson filed a lawsuit against Warner Bros. for using Nicholson's likeness in promotional materials without his consent. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court.
Discography
The original cast recording of "A Little Shop of Horrors" was released in 1982 and has since been certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. The show has also been adapted into several films and television productions, including a 1986 film adaptation starring Rick Moranis.
Legacy
Over the decades, "A Little Shop of Horrors" has become a beloved classic of musical theater. Its catchy songs, memorable characters, and dark humor have resonated with audiences around the world. The show has also been praised for its ability to address serious themes, such as addiction and the nature of evil, in a darkly comedic way.
In Conclusion
"A Little Shop of Horrors" stands as a testament to the enduring power of musical theater to entertain, provoke, and leave a lasting impression. Its macabre humor, haunting melodies, and memorable characters have made it a timeless favorite that continues to captivate audiences to this day.