Following a tour which has taken them to Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra to date – the Australian cast of Little Shop of Horrors have recently begun a short season at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) Playhouse.
During a recent media call at the venue, I was able to grab a few minutes to speak with Esther Hannaford, who takes on the role of Seymour’s love interest Audrey. You can read the full transcript of my interview below:
What do you think makes this a show worth seeing?
For me personally and my tastes, this show is worth seeing because it treads the line between the dark tragedy and comedy well. Its quite dark and the comedy comes out of that. But I think its worth seeing for many reasons, because Brent does a wonderful job voicing the plant and Seymour, and also because of the puppet. I also think all the elements have come together nicely, like the design, choreography, lighting – everyone’s done a very good job.
Little Shop of Horrors has already been performed in several states already. What has the reception been like in your opinion?
Its been great. Its been very different in every city, and been very interesting for us to see. Especially with black comedy, cause some people are really into that, and some people might find it uncomfortable. But overall, its been a huge success everywhere. So thats been good fun for us.
Have there been any particularly memorable moments you have had working on this show.
I think Melbourne opening night was pretty memorable, I won’t forget that one. Melbourne may be a dark sense of humoured city, so for us that was a huge highlight. We will see how Brisbane goes tonight.
Do you have any favourite scene in Little Shop of Horrors
I really love “Somewhere That’s Green” and the little scene with the girls leading up to that, and the monologue leading up to the song – or a little bit into the song. I think thats my favourite.
Why do you think Little Shop of Horrors Has Managed to Remain Successful All These Decades?
I think because its a simplified myth. Its easy to digest, the characters are archetypal and people can see themselves in the characters or certain traits of themselves in different parts of the show. Its easy to examine, and it also gives everyone a chance to laugh at things we don’t normally laugh at – and not in a terrible way. You either laugh or you cry, so its nice to have the same experience and get the same message, but get to enjoy it and laugh.
What advice do you have for those looking to enter theatre?
For me, and this is not the same for everyone, I would say hone what is unique to you – and hone in on that. As opposed to trying to fit into what perhaps might be the commercially viable option. I think of the quote “Do you, nobody does it better”. In the arts that is a great ethos to follow.
Thank you very much for your time, and good luck tonight!
Tickets to see Little Shop of Horrors in the QPAC Playhouse are priced at $77.40 – $112.40 each, with the price dependent on session preference, seating preference and concession/student status. For more information and to book tickets, visit the QPAC websiteor contact their box office.
Little Shop of Horrors is being presented by Luckiest Productions and Tinderbox Productions. Following the Brisbane season, it will be headed to the Roslyn Packer Theatre in Sydney and His Majesty’s Theatre in Perth.
