Live audiences crave ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

From a tent pitched on a corner a few blocks north of the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights, you’ll hear one of the most recognizable and oft-imitated musical refrains: “Feed Me, Seymour.” Go ahead – you know you want to.

Yes, Metropolis has launched the sci-fi musical comedy “Little Shop of Horrors,” but not indoors on stage, but in a COVID-precautionary, socially distanced, open tent. And what a spectacular production it is. Directed by Enrico Spada, with musical direction by Kenneth McMullen, this well-paced, deliciously fun production will devour your attention.

“Little Shop of Horrors” has been a hit since the team of Howard Ashman (book and lyrics) and Alan Menken (music) created the tale of the hapless, shy underdog Seymour, who falls under the spell of a foul-mouthed, rhythm-and-blues-singing, carnivorous plant (picture a Venus flytrap) that he discovers during a solar eclipse.

Seymour works for Mr. Mushnik, a failing florist, and when the plant Audrey II (named after his coworker and girl of his dreams) promises fame, fortune and glory, Seymour willingly starts providing what this carnivorous entity craves: meat and human blood. And, thus, Audrey II begins her culinary trek toward world domination.

Set in the 1960s, Sam Gribben’s scenic design is a simple, one-set florist shop befitting the tent space; costumes by Megan Wood are colorfully era-appropriate; and lighting by Trey Brazeal adds to the visual success of the production.

As for that cast: Breon Arzell is the voice of Audrey II and also the choreographer. (I admire his stamina). His Audrey II is wisecracking, evil and nasty (“Suppertime”); his choreography is energetic and expressive. And speaking of nasty, horrid dentist Orin Scrivello, who is dating and abusing Audrey, likely couldn’t be any viler thanks to Michael Metcalf”s sadistic portrayal. (But, of course, we know he gets his just deserts.) Nor does the dentist’s fondness for nitrous oxide help.

The Greek Chorus of Crystal, Chiffon and Ronnette (aka the Ronnettes), as played by Lexie Bailey, Yasir Muhammad and Selena Robinson, features spectacular singers who doo-wop their way along to move scenes forward.

Khyel S. Roberson plays poor Mr. Mushnik; he’s somewhat paternal, and tries to advise Audrey (“perhaps Orin isn’t such a nice guy”) in her choice of men. He is the blustery boss of the skid row floral shop that employs both Seymour and Audrey.

Emilie Rose Danno is the daffy Audrey, and in her portrayal, she definitely lacks self-esteem and good taste in men, despite Seymour’s devotion. (“I don’t deserve nice guys.”) Danno delivers the show-stopping “Suddenly, Seymour” and my favorite, “Somewhere That’s Green,” with emotion and grace.

Mark Yacullo is a strong, outstanding actor and smoothly beautiful singer who plays the awkward, sweet hero Seymour to a T.

Yacullo, Danno and Arzell have an evident sense of character and shared chemistry.

The two-act show has one intermission, and the outdoor space offers portable restrooms. Chairs are provided. Viewer discretion is advised because of adult language and themes.

“Little Shop of Horrors” ran off Broadway for 2,209 performances before the 1986 film catapulted it into even more fame. And, perhaps not surprisingly, it will be returning to Broadway this fall. Romance, satire, comedy, charm – all perfect summer fare for the 20th anniversary season of Metropolis. Welcome back!

• Regina Belt-Daniels is overjoyed that live theater with live audiences is back. A veteran of the theater since age 7, she has appeared in or directed over 50 productions in the Illinois area. When not writing reviews, she can be found serving on RCLPC and It’s Showtime theater boards.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Little Shop of Horrors” by Metropolis Performing Arts Center

WHERE: Outdoor tent at Evergreen Avenue and Eastman Street, Arlington Heights

WHEN: Through June 19

COST: $40

INFORMATION: 847-577-2121, www.metropolisarts.com