SMSA performs ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ next weekend
Posted by Horror Movies News on March 29, 2014<![CDATA[SMSA and Music Theater International is presenting "Little Shop of Horrors." a comedy horror rock musical, by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman. The original long-running 1982 off-Broadway production and subsequent Broadway production has been performed all over the world. The musical was also made into a 1986 film of the same name, directed by Frank Oz. It follows the story of a down in the dumps flower shop employee who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh. The show takes many twists and turns as cosmic events change the lives of everyone in the show. The conclusion will surprise audience members old and young alike. Although a comedy, Little Shop of Horrors delivers a moral lesson and many sentimental moments throughout. The musical is based on the low-budget 1960 black comedy film The Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Roger Corman. The music, composed by Menken in the style of early 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and early Motown, includes several well-known tunes, including the title song, "Skid Row (Downtown)," "Somewhere That's Green," and "Suddenly, Seymour". "The Plant" is the most obvious new addition to the cast. As its own character, the plant required puppet work by students, as well as precise timing vocally with the voice of the plant. Rehearsals are very intense, as both puppeteer and voice of the plant had to be completely in-sync. The plant was rented from Character Translations, which is a full service design and manufacturing facility specializing in the creation and production of licensed walk-around character costumes. Character Translations works closely with Music Theater International and other professional companies to bring characters of all facets to life. The plant comes in four separate stages and had to be shipped from Pennsylvania. The shipment itself was a hefty 400 pounds, and it took many volunteers and students to help get it ready for performance. Additionally, audiences will have a chance to have their picture taken with the oversized pod at the end of the show. The show is directed by Christa (Rebek) Lewis (95'). The show is also featuring a few North Fond du Lac students this year. Due to the timing of NFDL hosting solo/ensemble and other events in the PAC, SMSA has extended the show to North Fond du Lac students for this year. It has truly been extraordinary! Blending the talents of these students with the students from SMSA has proven to be a great experience and students from both schools get to share this opportunity and get to know each other and make new friends. Cast members include: Todd Petrie, Lizzie Hoch, LeAnne Bavers, Elizabeth Brunette, Emily Cratchy, Matt Skiff, Mark Sutton, Isaac Skiff, Sydney Brusky, Jodi Newhauser, Anja Ozols, Angela Schreiner, Mikaela Hanrahan, Gabi Hanlon, Molly Kluever, Mackenzie Mas, Megan Mas, Kelsey Carter, Julianna Nett, Josh Giles, Christopher Anderson, Lucas Krebsbach, Peter Streblow, Theresa Peters, Emily Ransom, Abby Meyer, Hannah Lavrenz, Lauren Freund, Rachel O'Loughlin, Hannah Hellmann, Emily Loehr, Claire Dugenske, Destiny Snyder, Cora Erdman, Alyssa Prost, Brittany Ramskugler, Shelly Faris, and Kylie Benson. The crew consists of sound, lighting and backstage help. These students are Lauren Huck, Jenny Woznick, Tim Amerling, Austin Stacey, Gabe Ogle, Luke Holzmann, Lizzy Leichtle, Brad Jacques, Ryan Mas, Sam Schrauth, Ryan Mas, Brad Jacques, Max Wuest, Sam Schrauth, Anna Huck, Katie Kurer, Amelia Ford, Jacob Ford, Brittany Ramskugler, and Liz Payne. The show will be held at the NFDL's PAC, 325 McKinley St. Little Shop of Horrors will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5; and at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 6. Tickets will be available for presale, with preferred seating at Wegners Office Supply, 10 Court St., FDL. They're also available at the door. Tickets are $10; $7 for seniors age 60 or better; and $3 for students.