There is something strange and interesting growing in Church Hill Theatre as Edinburgh University’s
Savoy Opera Group returns with their production of Little Shop of Horrors, in bloom from 23 – 27
January. In a wacky, camp and poignant production of the cult classic musical which is unafraid of its
anti-capitalist heart, every creative team flourishes and blooms in a masterful display of their talent
upon the streets of Skid Row. Highly stylised and bizarre in its perfect Venus flytrap style capture of
the musical’s tone, this production does not neglect its grounding in the real and downtrodden.
In a stunning command of lighting, set and sound design, Skid Row is realised to feel lived in and distinct
as smoke floods into the miserable, green hued streets, complimented by the talented ensemble
who add wonders of depth to the production. With the incredible live band, energetic choreography
and levels of camp unexpected and impressive even for Little Shop, EUSOG’s production of the iconic
musical is a triumphant beast which cannot be missed.
Director’s Amy Stinton and Tom Beazley’s vision is clear: among the vibrant insanity of the show, the carnivorous plant is not the only horror, as this tale is, in their words, ‘a critique of the capitalist mindset and a cautionary tale’ at its core.
This heartfelt grounding in the real is heightened by the strength of this production’s characters:
Audrey’s portrayal is unique in its empathetic maturity as she is without hope of a better life, yet still
daydreams of one to keep herself sane. Seymour is characteristically sweet and naïve in a touching
contrast, still holding on to hope for the future. Unfortunately for him (as he soon finds out), hope in
Skid Row is a very dangerous thing.
This is a production raised from a treasured seed, tended to with loving practise and expertly crafted into a beautiful bloom, gorgeous and bizarre to every sense in the very best of ways.
Just, please: don’t feed the plants.
Image ‘Seymour and Audrey II’ by Andrew Perry provided via EUSOG Press Release