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 G 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.
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.
Adding to the enchantment of “Little Shop of Horrors” is the creative team, led by director Toff de Venecia. 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.”
Joining Toff in realizing this vision is puppet artist Kayla Teodoro, known for her exceptional work in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s “My Neighbour Totoro” and the National Theatre of London’s “Life of Pi”. Teodoro brings Audrey II to life with her inventive design, promising to infuse the production with a sense of wonder. Meanwhile, scenographer Mio Infante, having most recently designed the set of 9 Works Theatrical’s restaging of “RENT”, will transport audiences to the eccentric world of Skid Row, where the story unfolds.
With its irresistible charm and timeless appeal, “Little Shop of Horrors” is set to captivate Manila audiences and become the must-see theatrical event of the summer.
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS will run all weekends from July 6 to 28, 2024 at the G 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.
With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is based on the film by Roger Corman, with screenplay by Charles Griffith. The show was originally staged in 1982 Off-Off-Broadway and turned into a musical film in 1986.
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.
Heading the production team is Executive Producer Anna Santamaria; together with Sab Jose-Gregorio as Marketing and PR director; Maine Manalansan-Veneracion as Design Director; Charyl De Guzman as Production Manager; Loreta Arroyo as Marketing & PR Manager; Salve
Villarosa van Schoonhoven, Myka Cue, and Mariella Laurel as Marketing and PR Associates; Marielle Filoteo as Social Media Associate; Shaina Libunao as Merch Associate; Mary Olan as Marketing and Merch Associate; and Pachot Festejo as Stage Manager.
For partnerships, ticketing and show buying inquiries, you may reach us via email or mobile:
Showbuying – Anna Santamaria at anna@thesandboxco.com
Partnerships – Sab Jose-Gregorio at sab@thesandboxco.com
Ticketing Info – info@thesandboxco.com or +63917 152 5560
For updates, follow us on Facebook (@TheSandboxCollective), Twitter, Instagram & Tiktok (@thesandboxco). You may also visit our newly launched website https://www.thesandboxco.com/
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is brought to you by The Sandbox Collective, together with MAC Cosmetics as official make-up partner, Yupangco Music as official music partner, Privato Hotel as official hotel partner, and Pitchworks as official billboard partner. Special thanks to our media partners: TheaterFansManila.com, WhenInManila.com, YoungStar, PalabasTayo, Adobo Magazine, and Clavel Media.
The Sandbox Collective would also like to thank the following sponsors: Fig & Vine, C2, Jack ‘n Jill Cream-O, Jack ‘n Jill Magic Flakes, Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks, Jack ‘n Jill Nips, Jack ‘n Jill Maxx, Jack ‘n Jill XO, Katinko, Fyukinta’s Flants, Unbeleafable and Greenwich.
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com
