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MUSICAL: Little Shop of Horrors
STUDENTS at the Horsham branch of the Act Too Arts Academy wowed audiences at The Capitol last week with the comedy hit show Little Shop of Horrors, a rock musical about a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood.
Working in Academy time, students rehearsed with director, Audrey Lucas and Musical Director, Matt Greaves to perfect a fast paced, slick show which had audiences roaring with laughter.
Benedict Welch as the love sick Seymour Krelbourn gave an outstanding performance as he wrestled his conscience, unsure whether to feed the plant in order to fulfil his dreams or remain a nobody.
Tara Lucas portrayed the sweet and vulnerable Audrey with sensitivity and pathos, beautifully performing some of the most memorable songs from the show. 'Somewhere that's Green' and 'Suddenly Seymour', performed alongside Benedict, were most definitely worthy of the applause that followed.
Ably demonstrating her natural ability for stage craft, Jessi Stritch was hysterical as Mrs rather than scripted Mr Mushnik, the cigar smoking, over bearing owner of Mushnik's Florists who encourages Seymour to feed the plant!
Newcomer to the group, Julien Barnett amused audiences with his portrayal of Orin the dentist, Audrey's sadistic boyfriend, managing, admirably, to sing from within a Nitrous Oxide gas mask during his dramatic death scene!
Ronnettes, Lottie Avery, Laurel Drew, Chloe Miles, Charlotte OHalloran, Michelle Walder and Izzy Watson provided well sung narrative as the stunning six piece street urchin group. The entire cast were admirably supported by a strong ensemble featuring Jessica Attfield, Immy Heredge, Ellie Huddleston and Amy Zimmerman as well as musical accompaniment directed by Matt Greaves.
Special mention must go to Tom Brett who remained behind the scenes as the Voice of the Plant, impressing audiences with his rich baritone voice and great puppeteering skills.
Tom was assisted by Nathanael Landskroner, one of the Academy's younger students, who operated the smaller plants. Former Academy student, Beth Landskroner stepped in to conduct the performance.
The plants and props were made in house under the direction of Producer, Jill Landskroner who said, "Act Too encourage students to get involved in all stages of production as we feel it is important for them to experience every aspect of what goes into producing a full scale stage show."
Academy Principal and Executive Producer, Lance Milton said, "I am very proud of our students and 'Little Shop of Horrors' is a testimony to the hard work and dedication of one of many groups of exceptional youngsters from within the academy.
"These in house academy shows are not cast by open audition like our other shows, but rather feature every student from a particular class - in this instance the oldest students at Horsham branch.
"The high standard of this show admirably reflects the work that our brilliant tutors and support staff do at the academy. I would like to thank all of the tutors personally and on behalf of the students who have so delightfully demonstrated this week how much has been gleaned from their expert guidance."
The Act Too Arts Academy (formally Act Too Stage School] meets every Saturday morning.
Students receive lessons in Drama, Dance and Singing. In addition to regular classes students are privileged to take part in workshops given by specialists tutors and West End cast members past and present.
For many students Act Too is simply a fun way for them to explore their love of theatre, make new friends and develop vital personal skills in communication and confidence.
However some do go on to use the skills they have developed. The Academy is very proud to have several students appearing in The West End including one presently in the title role of 'Oliver!' Many students also go on to study areas of the performing arts at graduate level and pursue a related career.
The Horsham branch presently has a waiting list but places are available at the Crawley branch and there is a new branch planned for Brighton soon. For further information please contact school@acttoo.co.uk
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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