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North Branch high school actors bring the musical version of the forever funky Little Shop of Horrors to the stage this week.  

Often described in popular media as a “horror comedy,” Little Shop is all about questioning what motivates you to feed that symbolic plant in your life that brings you fame and fortune. And then it asks you to come to terms if and when that plant takes over.  

This high school production looks to be a fun experience.  Several songs overheard during evening rehearsal last week at North Branch’s Edelstein Auditorium,  were very nicely-done. This group actually seems to get into the soundtrack,  even with dated lyrics about living “like Donna Reed” (Is there anybody born after 1960 who even knows Donna Reed? )

Director Rachel Bigelow is in just her second year of contracting to be musical director for North Branch.  She said last year her first show was chosen mainly for being a classic play that she felt the community would like to see done.

She also selects shows she likes, adding,  “That way I can pass on my passion for theatre to my students.”

Little Shop contains good lead roles and a large supporting cast which is also a consideration.  The fact there is a place for “exciting ensemble roles” makes an impact when Bigelow is choosing the fall  show.

Little Shop cast members might be familiar faces to supporters of last year’s musical Oklahoma;  which is a good thing because students carry a real level of comfort on this stage,  and maybe more importantly, backstage. Those pesky set changes are not going to detract from this show.

The voice of the talking carnivorous plant is provided by Sonya Smetana and her timing with the actor manipulating the on-stage 3-D plant, Taya Bellefy makes for entertaining moments. 

The chorus of girls who began life as street urchins in the original Little Shop, are also fun to watch.  They are Anna Kennedy, Morgan Murphy, Emily Powell, Leea Biederman, Ruth Elkerton and Bekah Gomes.

Petite and demure, Lynnia Alden as Seymour’s love interest Audrey, is a treat with her Bronx accent.

And, in this North Branch version the shop-owner is  female and Mya Severson is a hoot as Mrs. Mushnik.  

Zach Fluegel plays Seymour, the hapless guardian of the horrible plant,  and is perfectly cast.  You care if he gets the girl or not.  And, we’re not telling.

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