I reviewed this production of Little Shop of Horrors in 2020 and noted that the show announced an extension through May. Other than the tiny inconvenience of a global pandemic this musical comedy gem has been eating bloody well every since. The reason to see it again? Category is: Jinkx Monsoon.
Drag superstar Jinkx is currently in residence in the role of Audrey. Since I’ve already commented on this production this review serves as a brief blog update. Jinkx is very good in the role as expected. The nod to her drag garners an extra big laugh in the song “Suddenly, Seymour”. When Seymour sings “you don’t need no makeup” her facial reaction is akin to horrified and everyone in the house erupted with knowing laughter.
This Audrey is a big galoot of a presence. The awkwardness of the kiss with Seymour is hilariously rendered, as clumsy as it is sweet. The length of the kiss might have caused overtime for the stage crew. The audience ate it up. As did Major Attaway as Audrey II in a memorably killer vocalization.
In the performance I saw understudy Jeff Sears portrayed Seymour. He was nebbishly enjoyable with a really nice voice to match the great tunes his character is blessed with. James Carpinello was a devilishly fun bad guy as well. Furthermore, Khadija Sankoh’s screeching turn as Urchin Chiffon was a howler, made even better with some highly entertaining audience ad lib.
I will say I worried a trifle at intermission as the first half seemed a little flat. Everything was fine but the energy level on stage felt muted. Perhaps I know the show too well? (I don’t usually have that issue, however. Referencing Merrily We Roll Along.) The second act, on the other hand, was high voltage from start to finish. The marvel that is the character and design of Audrey II remains remarkable with just the right amount of creepy meets campy.
Sales for this show skyrocketed when Jinkx was announced. Her turn last year in Chicago broke box office records (and she is back again this June). In New York, safe to say, it is always monsoon season. Someone (anyone!) let’s agree on a revival of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Pronto. Who else could slay as brothel owner Miss Mona?
Little Shop of Horrors is currently running at Off-Broadway’s Westside Theatre. Corbin Bleu is starring in the role of Seymour. Jinkx Monsoon will perform the role of Audrey through May before rejoining the Broadway cast of Chicago from June 27 to July 12, 2024.
theaterreviewsfrommyseat/littleshopofhorrors