For those of you who missed it, you would have witnessed a treat. The University of Arkansas--Monticello Music Theatre Workshop presented the play "Little Shop of Horrors" April 15-16 at the Fine Arts Center Auditorium. The play started at 7:30 p.m. and lasted until about 10 p.m.

   The musical showcased the talents of many UAM students and faculty during the production. This play was originally produced at the Orpheum Theater in New York City by the WPA Theater, David Gefen, Cameron Mackintosh and the Schubert Organization.

   The UAM production was directed by Kent Skinner. The cast included many UAM chorale members as well as UAM faculty.

   "We worked really hard on this production; we started auditions during the fall semester. We started rehearsal at the beginning of the spring semester," Skinner said. "The biggest challenge of this production was the manipulation and coordination of the plant; it was quite difficult."

Photo by Jennifer James

Audrey II sleeps -- (from left) Mr. Mushnik and Seymour perform "Mushnik and Son" during "Little Shop of Horrors" last weekend.

   Carmen Pruitt who played the character Crystal said, "It was a blast."

   Musicians in the play, Johnathan Bradley and Josh Grant said, "This project was fun. We started practicing two weeks ago."

   The play included a solo called, "Somewhere That's Green," which was performed by Randa Pruitt who played the character Audrey. There was constant laughter throughout the auditorium on both nights; some people laughed until they cried.

   Rachael Runyan, a UAM student, commented on the play, "It was the best show that UAM has ever had!"

   Janay Kolen, a UAM student, said, "It was a spectacular performance, I really enjoyed the show!"

   LaConda Bolden, another UAM student, said, "This was the greatest show ever!"