Santa Monica’s Morgan-Wixson Theatre presents the beloved musical comedy Little Shop of Horrors. Directed by D’Shaun A. Booker and produced by Spencer Johnson with musical direction by Esin Aydingoz and choreography by Mori Edwards, this classic hit opens March 16 and runs through April 13. The cast features (in alphabetical order): Matt Artson, Tyra Dennis, Steven Flowers, FreXinet, Jess LaFever, Patrick Olsen, Marc Ostroff, Brian O’Sullivan, and Brayon Rollison.

Jess LaFever and Patrick Olsen star as Audrey and Seymour in the Morgan-Wixson’s production of Little Shop of Horrors; Photo by JDCPhotography

For the misfits of Skid Row, life is full of broken dreams and dead ends. Seymour is a meek and dejected assistant at a floral shop who happens upon a strange plant, which he affectionately names “Audrey II” after his crush at the shop. Little does he know that this strange and unusual plant will develop a soulful R&B voice, a potty mouth, and an unquenchable thirst for human blood. As Audrey II grows bigger and meaner, the carnivorous plant promises limitless fame and fortune to Seymour, as long as he continues providing a fresh supply of blood. Just when it’s too late, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s extra-terrestrial origins and its true drive for world-domination.

Audiences love the electrifying early 1960s-style doo-wop score from Alan Menken and humorous book and lyrics by Howard Ashman, the duo best known for their legendary Disney film scores. Based on the darkly comic Roger Corman film of the same name, Menken and Ashman created a unique musical that swept the Off-Broadway awards when it premiered, ran for over five years, enjoyed numerous revivals, and has continued to be a crowd favorite ever since.

Parents need to know that this is a musical comedy but it has dark themes and is not for young children or very sensitive viewers. Recommended for ages 12 and up. 

Admission is $28/adults, $23/seniors and students. Visit the website or call (310) 828-7519 for tickets. Free parking available at the Venice Family Clinic, 2509 Pico Blvd. 

What: Little Shop of Horrors
Where: Morgan-Wixson Theatre, 2627 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 90405
When: March 16 thru April 16, 2019; Friday and Saturday evenings at 8pm; Sundays at 2pm;
Phone: (310) 828-7519
Website: https://www.morgan-wixson.org/