Habersham Central High senior Justin Williams takes on the role of Seymour Krelborn in the HCHS production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” (Carson Sprinkle/Stage Raiders)
It was a 1960 B movie that spawned an off-Broadway play that inspired a popular 1986 film starring Rick Moranis and Steve Martin. Now, Little Shop of Horrors is set to open on stage at Habersham Central High School.
The family-friendly, campy comedy opens Thursday, May 2 and runs through Sunday, May 5. It tells the story of a plant from outer-space who is determined to take over the world. It features a small cast, numerous puppets, and an ensemble of loveable (and not-so-loveable) characters.
Now Habersham recently caught up with drama teacher and director Jeremy Bishop for a Q&A about this year’s spring musical.
Why did you choose “Little Shop of Horrors” for this year’s spring musical?
It’s a show with a small cast that is quirky and fun, and I thought we had the right group of kids for it. It also has a lot of audience appeal, and I hoped that people would be very interested in seeing it.
How many students are involved in this year’s production?
There are about 25 students in the play, and about 15 more involved with technical and production roles. All of my classes (about 70 kids total) will have worked on the show in come capacity, whether building, painting, or helping with props.
What other groups or outside individuals are involved in the production?
It’s a community effort. Donna James and Taylor Sexton are providing piano and percussion accompaniment. Amber Miller handled most of the choreography. Karen Sanders designed and made costumes for our principal characters. We rented puppets from Berry College. And the Booster Club officers have helped with lots of items, not least of which are publicity and volunteer management. I’m sure I’m leaving someone out, but lots of adults and community members have lent a hand.
How long have you all been rehearsing for “Little Shop”?
It has been a traditional 6 week rehearsal period.
What’s the most challenging aspect of this production?
I thought it would be the puppets, but it turned out to be creating blocking and movement without having all of the technical elements in place yet.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of this production?
Seeing students progress from ensemble members to leading men and ladies, and also working with the students as collaborators. A lot of blocking, choreography, and design work was done by the students on this production. Justin Williams and Carson Sprinkle are responsible for an enormous amount of concept and design work, not to mention publicity. Grace Wills and Grace Thompson have supplemented Ms. Miller’s choreography. A lot of the students helped with or, in some cases, did all of, their own blocking and movement. And that’s just to mention a few things.
Why should people come to this year’s spring musical?
It’s fun! And very different than what most people expect from a musical. Do you like campy sci-fi horror movies from the 1950’s? Do you like motown? Do you like laugh-out-loud comedy? Even if you answered no to those questions, I still think you will enjoy this show.
The Habersham Stage Raiders’ production of Little Shop of Horrors opens Thursday, May 2. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. May 2-4 and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 5. All performances are in the Habersham Central High School Auditorium located at 2059 Highway 197 South in Mt. Airy.
Tickets are $5 for students and seniors, and $7 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at www.stageraiders.com.
