Oh, The “Horror”: Halloween Treat Coming

By Darleen Sanford
Posted: October 27, 2008

Rehearsals are in full swing as finishing touches are put on the River Hill High School Theatre Arts production of the science fiction movie spoof, “Little Shop of Horrors.”

RHHS Theatre Arts teacher Pam Land will direct with assistance from student directors Allison Spada, Casey Merritt and Lucy Curnock. Student Anne-Marie Gover will be the assistant choreographer. Joe Blasko, a long-time friend of RHHS Theatre Arts, will direct the construction of the set designed by RHHS alumnus Mike Leon. Student stage manager Nick Woodhouse will lead a crew of more than 35 dedicated students in building the sets and props and running the show during each performance. Members of this team will control the various puppets that represent the carnivorous plant, Audrey II.

Professional musician and Helen Hayes award winner Doug Lawler, will vocally direct and conduct the band. RHHS Vocal Music Teacher Amy Hairston will serve as vocal coach. Rhonda De La Mar, math teacher, will coordinate the costumes with assistance from parent volunteers.

Among the cast of more than 25 RHHS students you will see Chris Donaldson as the mild-mannered Seymour, Elianna Stone as Audrey his co-worker/object of his affection and Taylor Peppers as Mr. Mushnik, the owner of the run-down flower shop. Teryn Leaper is the Voice of Audrey II. Steve Synk plays the mean-spirited dentist who has an unhealthy relationship with Audrey. Back up singers are Grace Kim. Hannah Jefferson, Casey Merritt, Melissa Ruben, Lindsey Ullman and Sara Vanasse. Brian Becraft and Anna Martello serve as the main puppeteers.

Keep you eyes open to spot castmembers Kyle Bailey, Jeff Grimes, John Hong, Rocky Bostick, Katheryn Knaus, Zac Brightwell, Allison Spada, Alex Bailey, Julian Berry, Jason Rodriquez, Arjun Adapa, Kelsey Balimtas, Samira Nourbaksh, Lauren Karas, Lucy Curnock and Mikkel Snyder.

Seymour’s world changes when he discovers the strangely interesting carnivorous plant who offers him fame and fortune at a life or death price. There will be special admission on Halloween Friday for $7. Everyone is invited to come in costume. Costumed children up to age 12 will get a Halloween treat and members of the cast will be available after the show for picture taking.

Tickets for performances Oct. 29, 30 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. will be $9 in advance or $10 at the door. Box Office opens 90 minutes before curtain time. For more information, e-mail pland@hcpss.org or call 410-313-7120.

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