West Aurora HS to perform 'Little Shop of Horrors'
West Aurora Drama Troupe 2013 will perform "Little Shop of Horrors" at 7 p.m. April 26, 27, and 28 in the West Aurora High School auditorium, directed by Jen Pauley.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at sd129tickets.org. Limited tickets will be available at the door for $12. The show's book and lyrics are by Howard Ashman and the music is by Alan Menken.
"Little Shop of Horrors" follows meek flower shop assistant Seymour Krelborn, who pines for his irresistible co-worker, Audrey. However, Audrey is dating the sadistic Orin Scrivello, DDS, who finds enjoyment out of putting his dental patients through excruciating pain. Thus, Seymour is forced to admire his love from afar.
During a total eclipse, Seymour discovers an unusual plant that only feasts on human flesh and blood and names it Audrey II. As the plant grows, it gains a great deal of publicity and business for the previously struggling store. Unfortunately, Audrey II's thirst for blood also grows with its size, and Seymour must find a way to keep it fed and happy.
This is Pauley's first year directing the spring musical at West Aurora, and when asked why she chose "Little Shop of Horrors" as her first show, she said, "I chose 'Little Shop' for two reasons. First, I know the show backward and forwards, so that gave me some peace of mind. More importantly, though, I think that this show is a major crowd-pleaser."
This show comes with its own unique challenges; one being the immense set that will take up West Aurora's entire stage.
"Our set will be pretty large," said Pauley. "Two stories with a revolve. And, of course, there is Audrey II to consider."
The Audrey II plant changes size multiple times to match its accelerating growth in the show, so the plant on its own will take up a good amount of space by the time it's full-grown.
But, even though the set will provide this challenge to the crew and cast, Pauley is very much looking forward to seeing the final result.
"I'm excited for this cast," she said. "They are a great group of kids with incredible talent. They are going to knock the socks off the audience."
The high school is at 1201 W. New York St., Aurora. Call (630) 301-5600 for details.