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'Barnstormers rock on with an all-consuming musical that travels well'
A gigantic man-eating plant, a talented cast and some clever scenery - put them all together and you've got a great evening's entertainment for all the family.
The Barnstormers really excelled themselves when they presented the fun (if not a little scary) 80's smash hit rock musical 'Little Shop of Horrors' at the Barn Theatre.
And their efforts were even more commendable in that money raised will go towards the building of a much-needed new extension and better facilities at the popular theatre in Bluehouse Lane.
The musical, written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, is set in 60's New York in a rundown skid row florists teetering on the brink of closure.
It's fortunes are reversed, however, by the arrival of a strange plant discovered by poor and insecure florist's assistant, Seymour Krelborn.
Paul Grace, in his first leading role at the Barn, was brilliant as the downtrodden Seymour, naively eager to win the affections of his secret love, salesgirl Audrey.
Not only did he look the part in plaid jumper and broken glasses, but Paul proved he had the voice to carry off what is quite a demanding role.
Leading lady Kelly Beard also gave a remarkable performance as the tarty but genuine Audrey and her rendition of 'Somewhere that's Green' was particularly touching.
The capable Don Pickett was suitably dour as shop owner, Mr Mushnik, while Bob Wilson was hilarious as Audrey's leather clad sadistic boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, who becomes Audrey II's first main meal.
The Ronnettes, Cathy Newitt, Alison Redford and Fiona Steel, were a singing sensation in their selection of 60's outfits and startling bouffant hairdos, but special mention must go to the voice and puppeteer behind that bloodthirsty plant, Paul Longhurst and Chris Bassett.
The stage really came alive as soon as Audrey II opened its mouth and began gulping down the hapless cast.
Its huge booming voice and professionally-made appearance helped create the illusion that a plant really could grow from eight inches to eight feet within the space of a couple of hours.
Following its successful run in Oxted, the whole cast, including the Audrey II, was off to Cornwall for a five days of performances at the Minack Theatre on the cliffs at Porthcurno.
No doubt they were as well received in the West Country as they were at the Barn.
Sigrid Sherrell writes for the 'Tandridge Chronicle' - June 2001
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