11 years ago I was invited to be the vocal coach of Reynolds Secondary School’s production of, “Little Shop of Horrors”. At the time, like most of us, I had only seen the movie, but quickly fell in love with the Broadway Script and Score: the music is up-beat and edgy at times; the characters have depth; the story is dark but humorous; the ending is not your “typical” Broadway ending. Since then I have always wanted to direct the show and have waited for the right time and group of students to do that with. I knew last year after graduating so many from the program, that this was the year.
“Little Shop of Horrors” is different than anything we have done thus far and Lambrick, and it has been a lot of fun to bring it to life on our stage. This year’s cast has worked very hard to create their own versions of these popular characters. There is less music in this show, which meant their acting has been pushed and they have risen to that challenge. This year’s crew, was faced with the task of building the plants and creating a set with multiple levels to it. I am pleased to say that with some support, the set and plants are almost completely student fabricated.
The other unique thing about this year’s production is the team behind it. I could not have done this show without the help of our Choreographer Kanika Jackson, who is back for a 3rd year with Lambrick. As well as our Assistant Director, Tea Siskin, who recently stepped in as I was pulled away for a few weeks due to surgery. Tea is a new Drama/Musical Theatre teacher in the district and she has done an outstanding job with this show. What is unique and very special for me though, is that both Kanika and Tea were students in the performance I worked on 11 years ago, and have now come full circle by running this production while I have been away. I am very grateful to both of them.
I also need to thank my Teaching Partner and Pit Band Director, Barry Janzen. Barry is one of the most humble and talented people I have ever worked with. In preparing for surgery, I knew that whatever happened, “the show would go on”, as Barry was there to oversee, mentor, and help wherever needed. Having him there made it ok for me to rest, so I could come back and finish the show.
As well, I need to thank my family. My husband Mike Martin has been at crew throughout this year helping bring my vision come to life and he continued to be at rehearsals while I was away, dragging my children as “jr crew” while I was on the sidelines.
Finally, I need to thank the students in this year’s Cast, Crew and Pit Band. More than ever this year’s Musical Theatre students have had to come together as a family. Having to tell them I had to leave only a month before we opened, was one of the hardest conversations I have had to have with a group of students. From a distance though I have watched them support each other and step up to finish everything that needed to be done to complete the show you are about to watch. I am so proud of these students, and couldn’t be more blessed to be doing what I do.
Enjoy the show.