Manila, Philippines – Get ready to be transported to the quirky and carnivorous world of “Little Shop of Horrors” as The Sandbox Collective proudly presents this beloved musical at the Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater. Opening this July as a part of their 10th anniversary season, the production guarantees an unforgettable theatrical experience like never seen before. 

Based on the 1960 film by Roger Corman, “Little Shop of Horrors” tells the tale of Seymour Krelborn, a down-on-his-luck floral assistant, who discovers a mysterious plant with an insatiable appetite for human blood. As the plant, named Audrey II, grows and gains fame, Seymour finds himself tangled in a web of fame, love, and moral dilemmas. With a blend of humor, horror, and heart, the musical has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut Off-Off-Broadway in 1982. 

Little Shop of Horrors
Sue Ramirez and Reb Atadero

At the heart of the production is the music of legendary composer Alan Menken and the lyrics of Howard Ashman. Together, they have created compositions that have earned numerous accolades, including several Academy Awards and Grammy Awards. Audiences can expect to be dazzled by memorable songs such as “Suddenly, Seymour” and “Somewhere That’s Green,” which have become iconic in the musical theater canon. 

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is directed by Toff de Venecia, with Ejay Yatco as musical director, Mio Infante as scenographer, Kayla Teodoro as puppet designer, Stephen Viñas as choreographer, Joseph Matheu as lighting designer, Joee Mejias as video designer, Philleep Masaquel as technical director, Elliza Aurelio as FOH, hair and makeup head, JV Rabano and Lorenzo Corro as photographers. 

In sharing his vision for the show, Toff said, “Little Shop of Horrors has always been like musical theatre of the absurd. A talking plant that eats people? It doesn’t get any more absurd than that. Exploring the show from that theatrical vantage point allows us to dream up a surrealist world in which to bring to life this beloved classic with tinges of horror, whimsy, and hope.”

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS will run all weekends from July 6 to 28, 2024 at the Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, Bonifacio Global City. Shows will run at 3:00 pm & 7:30 pm on Saturdays & Sundays, and 8:00 pm on Fridays. The cast will feature Reb Atadero and Nyoy Volante alternating in the role of the lovelorn Seymour. Sharing the role of the unlucky-in-love heroine Audrey will be Sue Ramirez and Karylle Tatlonghari. The villainous dentist Orin will be played alternately by Markki Stroem and David Ezra. Portraying the flower shop’s proprietor, Mr. Mushnik, is First Gentleman of Philippine Theater Audie Gemora. Stepping into the role of the bloodthirsty plant Audrey II is singer and actor OJ Mariano. The Street Urchins will be played by Mikee Baskiñas, Abi Sulit, Paula Paguio, and Julia Serad, who will also be playing Audrey II in select performances. The Audrey II movement ensemble includes Franco Ramos, Francis Gatmaytan, Cheska Quimno, Kirby Dunnzell, and Jacqui Jacinto as the swing.

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