Man-eating plant makes musical fun

Think you're struggling in these tough economic times? At least you're not feeding O negative to a carnivorous plant to get by.

Dundee Middle School is performing the musical comedy "Little Shop of Horrors," by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Elgin Community College's Blizzard Theatre in the Visual and Performing Arts Center at the college, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.

The middle-school cast is putting on a professional-level production, thanks to the support of dedicated teachers and parent volunteers.

"It is so neat to be part of a program where fine arts are valued and appreciated," said choral director Mona Jethmalani. "The parent participation has been huge."

DMS parents helped build sets, gather props, and work backstage on hair, makeup and costuming.

But the young cast put in its fair share of work as well.

"I am so tired," remarked eighth-grader Ross Eugene, who plays Seymour. Rehearsals have been taking place an hour before and after school for weeks.

"I am not a morning person. It's been tough but definitely worth it."

This production has been many of the cast members' first exposure to theater.

"Some of the kids have past experience, but most do not," Jethmalani explained.

"They're learning basic staging terminology and how to block a scene."

First time actress Justyna Zelazny, who plays Audrey, hopes to continue pursuing drama in high school.

"It's fun being on stage in front of people," said the eighth-grader. "The show is really exciting."

Set in the 1960s, the story revolves around a hopeless florist on Skid Row who hits the big time when he comes across a strange plant from another world.

Life takes an interesting turn when the plant demands to be fed human blood.

Despite the twisted material, "Little Shop" manages to keep the comedy in the spotlight.

"Man-eating plants are pretty funny," said eighth-grader Dacotha Dudley, who plays the villainous dentist.

"I mean, they're not normal, which makes it fun."

Adding to the fun is the students' incentive to sell tickets. If both nights sell out, the cast gets to hit the directors in the face with pies.

"I hope it happens!" Jethmalani said with a laugh.

Tickets are $8 for students and $10 for adults. Call (847) 622-0300 or visit www.elgin.edu/arts. If available, tickets may also be bought at the door.