I’m thrilled to bring you a peek behind the curtain of an exciting production in the works: Little Shop of Horrors, performed by the Divergent Stars Theater Company. In this episode of The Small Town Tourist Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented cast and director to discuss the creative journey, challenges, and community-driven energy behind the show. For anyone curious about the intricacies of local theater, this episode is a must-listen!
A Director with Decades of Dedication
This production of Little Shop of Horrors is guided by a director with over 33 years in the theater world and a staggering 86 productions under their belt. Their extensive experience brings a level of insight and attention to detail that truly elevates the show. They spoke about the unique challenges of staging this classic musical, including the complexities of using a backing track rather than a live orchestra—something that adds both logistical challenges and new creative opportunities to the show.
With a deep understanding of the nuances in directing, this seasoned leader is bringing fresh ideas to Little Shop of Horrors, ensuring the production will be a unique experience, even for those who’ve seen it before.
The Cast: Talent and Teamwork
The cast of Little Shop of Horrors is packed with passionate and talented actors, each bringing their own interpretation and flair to their roles. From the audition process, which was both nerve-wracking and thrilling for many of the performers, to the character development taking place in rehearsals, it’s clear that each actor is deeply invested in their role. The cast shared stories about interpreting their characters in new ways to create more authentic portrayals, adding their personal touches to the classic characters we all know and love.
This production also includes understudies, adding an extra layer of dynamic performance to the show. Knowing they might be called to step into a role at any moment keeps everyone on their toes, fueling an atmosphere of readiness and camaraderie. It’s a real testament to the flexibility and resilience of these actors, who are all-in on making the show an unforgettable experience.
Building a Community On and Off Stage
Community theater is often a labor of love, and Little Shop of Horrors is no exception. One of the standout moments from my conversations with the cast was hearing how they’re bonding and growing together, both on and off the stage. The rehearsal process has been relatively relaxed, allowing the actors to build strong relationships with one another. The director emphasized the importance of these connections, explaining that the chemistry between the actors often spills over into their performances, enhancing the authenticity and impact of each scene.
The cast also talked about the value of background characters, who, while they may not always be in the spotlight, add layers and depth to the production. It’s clear that everyone involved—from the lead roles to the ensemble—is working in harmony to create a cohesive and engaging show.
The Magic of Local Theater
What makes this Little Shop of Horrors production truly special is its dedication to community involvement and audience engagement. The director and cast are keenly aware that, in a smaller venue, each seat feels close to the action. They’re leveraging this to create an immersive experience, one where audience members feel like part of the story.
As someone who’s always wanted to be part of Little Shop of Horrors, it’s been inspiring for me to witness the dedication of the Divergent Stars Theater Company. From the cast members who are developing new interpretations of their roles to the stage manager keeping everything organized, it’s clear that this show is a labor of love and an effort to bring the arts to our community in a fresh, accessible way.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
If you’re a fan of musical theater, or just love supporting local talent, you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind performance. The Divergent Stars Theater Company is putting a unique twist on a beloved classic, making it a standout event in our small-town arts scene. Little Shop of Horrors promises to be a memorable experience filled with talent, creativity, and community spirit.
So, mark your calendars and come join in for an unforgettable night of entertainment. Small-town theater is alive and thriving, and I can’t wait for you to see what this dedicated group has created. I’ll be in the audience, and I hope to see you there too!
The Small Town Tourist 
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