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PODCAST PROJECT

 Starting in the new term, Stage Door Theatre Group intends to run a pilot project. The project will consist of the group creating their own radio features; presenting shows; recording songs and radio plays; interviewing; mixing and much more!

 Watch this space for more information

Little Shop of Horrors - A Review

The Stage Door Theatre Group Downe's production of Little Shop Of Horrors delivered a Department Store of Joy. Perhaps not Broadway but a long way from Skid Row.

This recent West End resident was performed here with youthful enthusiasm accompanied by a live band from the other end of the age spectrum, but with no less verve. From the youngest seedlings to the elder oaks this was a fantastic show.

Stephen Grant perfectly embodied the naive, downtrodden Seymour whilst Sophie Dentith-Barnard ,who played Audrey, has a voice to die for, which, unfortunately, her character does towards the end of the show. Her rendition of Somewhere That's Green was one of the highlights of the evening. Connor Dawson as Mr Mushnik, the flower store owner, and the 3 girl "Greek Chorus" were also outstanding.

It must have taken a leap of faith to cast 10 year old Glen Leach as a semi-sadistic dentist but the risk paid off. Glen was a star as Orin Screvillo (D.D.S), the bullying biker boyfriend of Audrey and the first victim of the plant, Audrey 2. Orin is the only impediment to Audrey and Seymour's relationship but it was nevertheless a shame he had to become plant food so early.

Director Sean Chapman (who also provided the Sassy, soulful voice of Audrey II) has worked wonders yet again. A small budget needn't mean a low budget show as could be seen by the set, props, the lighting, music and effects. There were 4 versions of Audrey 2, each bigger than the last and Audrey 2.4 was big enough to consume poor Audrey 1 as well as Seymour.

Their previous show, Wizard of Oz, also played to full houses and I have no doubt, if this quality is maintained, that future shows will too.

 This review is due to be published by The Newshopper