“Feed me, Seymour!” What could be better than a comedy rock musical featuring an intricate flesh-eating plant?
Theatre Arts for Kids presents LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, book and lyrics by Howard Ashman and music by Alan Menken, Friday, July 27 at 7 PM and Saturday, July 28 at 2 PM and 7 PM at Christ Lutheran Church, 4325 Sumner Street in Lincoln.
The production centers around Seymour Krelborn, a meek and dejected assistant at a floral shop who happens upon a strange plant which he affectionately names “Audrey II” after his secret crush. Little does he know that this strange and unusual plant will develop a soulful R & B voice, a potty mouth, and an unquenchable thirst for human blood.
Tickets are on sale now for $15 and may be purchased online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com. Audience members must be at least four years of age for all TAFK performances.
The production is directed by Blake Tobey, a drama teacher at Waverly High School, who is “excited to be back at his home-theatre away from home.” Tobey has a close relationship with TAFK having directed and starred in shows in the past as well as serving on the board of Theatre Arts for Kids last year. “The enthusiastic cast has worked long hours filled with acting, music and dance,” he said. A tight rehearsal schedule within a short time frame served as a challenging obstacle, but Tobey attributes the success to the talented and dedicated cast. “The pressure to accurately present a well-known and loved musical can be substantial, but Blake Tobey and the entire company is up to the challenge,” said TAFK Artistic Director, Leah Kolar who also serves as the show’s co-choreographer along with Becca Stouder. Music direction is by Lauren Cook.
Kolar explained, “LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is this year’s ‘kids of all ages show,’ meaning that there are no age restrictions for cast members.” Tobey commented, “These ‘kids of all ages shows’ are awesome opportunities for students from various schools and adults from all around to come together and make great theatre. This feature has created the unique opportunity for parents to come out from the audience and step onto the stage with their children.”
Jasmine Tophil (Ensemble) says that she has appreciated watching her children develop teamwork amongst other cast members as they encourage each other to expand their skills. Tophil said, “It’s exciting to say that you got to partake in an activity that your kid is involved in. That’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Ed Muller (Audrey II) said, “Getting to watch Dasha and Helena [his daughters] rehearse, prepare, sing and perform throughout the process means the world to me.”
Theatre Arts for Kids gives special thanks to the LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS show sponsors: Quality Plus Painting and The Village Foundation, as well as Campbell’s Nursery who funded the plant, a very important component of the production.