This autumn the award-winning Hope Mill Theatre has been converted into Skid Row as Audrey II takes up residence until the end of November. If tonight’s press night was any gauge on how well this show is going to do, I would snap up a ticket NOW, as they will not last long.
A shy florist, Seymour, discovers a mysterious plant that feeds on blood and names it Audrey II after his crush, Audrey. As the plant grows, Seymour gains fame and fortune, but its appetite becomes increasingly dangerous. With Audrey II demanding human victims, Seymour must choose between success and morality, while trying to protect Audrey, before the monstrous plant takes over his life and threatens everyone around him.
I have to say Rob Kelly, the casting director could not have done a better job with this production. Each and every member of this incredible company complemented each other perfectly and not a weak link was seen.
Jed Berry is the star of the show displaying every ounce of his exceptional talent playing the hapless Seymour. His ability to move from the comedic moments to the tenderness he shares with Maisie Smith as Audrey was outstanding.
Smith herself gave an assured performance as the first controlled girlfriend of Orin, transforming into the love sick girlfriend of Seymour. Vocally she was perfect, her duet ‘Suddenly Seymour’ alongside Berry was a high point of the show.
Veteran (in this show) performer Michael Starke was strong as Mushnik, the flower shop owner and protector of Seymour. If I had any criticism, he could have played a little more Jewish, however I am conscious this may have been a production choice.
Completing the leading lights Benjamin Yates’ portrayal of Orin was both terrifying whilst at the same time utterly hilarious.
Rio Maye, Psalms-Nissa Mybrs-Reid and Gabrielle Davina Smith were a constant presence throughout the night as the Greek Chorus with Mybrs-Reid hitting some of the best notes of the evening, gaining cheers from the audience.
You cannot do Little Shop of Horrors without Audrey II. I have seen many versions of this show and on this occasion a traditional vision of the plant was used expertly manipulated by puppeteers Christopher Dobson, Julia Frost and Imogen Khan. Marcus Ayton provided the unmistakable voice of Audrey.
If you know this show, the set design is pretty restricted due to the locations used, however the attention to detail from designer Morgan Large must be commended, even down to the clock above the shop door which always told the correct time when referenced in the script.
The 5-piece band, hidden behind the set was perfectly mixed with the vocals, the sound design was yet another highlight of this show.
This company genuinely seem to be relishing playing at Hope Mill, and Hope Mill is honoured to be hosting such a vibrant and fun production. One of the best shows I have seen in 2026 to date.
The show moves on to the Liverpool Playhouse on the 3rd December after concluding its Manchester engagement on the 28th November. Tickets can be found at https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/little-shop-of-horrors/ and https://everymanplayhouse.com/event/little-shop-of-horrors/
Reviewer: Paul Downham
Reviewed: 7th October 206
North West End UK Rating: