February ended with a blast for Ewell Castle School as they held two successful productions of 'Little Shop of Horrors' in the Epsom Playhouse on the 27th and 28th. 

Many may be familiar with the film starring Rick Moranis with the original idea for 'Little Shop of Horrors' being conceived by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman who held the first off-Broadway production.

The musical held an interesting premise for the cast and they testified that it was the best musical they had featured in to date. The main cast members were Isaac Conibear as Seymour, Evelyn Lambert as Audrey, Naym Ali as Mr Mushnik, Thomas Hall as Orin Scrivello, and Ted Boulting-Williams as the voice of Audrey II. Special props also go to directors Ms Butterworth, Mrs Edwards, Ms Jones, and Mr Essenhigh whose assistance was instrumental in the creation of the musical. 

Musical numbers included “Grow for me,” “Somewhere that’s green,” “Dentist,” Little Shop of Horrors,” and including “Suddenly Seymour.” The fantastic performance of these pieces showcased the singing talents of the principal cast members along with; Belle Shipkolye, Athena Droutis, Eleanor Barnes, Darcy Kenny, and Ella Collett who together made up the group of girls called “The Doo-Wops”.

Principal Silas Edmonds commented “Ewell Castle School is renowned locally for the high quality of its Performing Arts and this musical production, our fourth at Epsom Playhouse showcased our talented cast brilliantly.  They not only sang superbly but displayed tremendous acting ability for young people aged between 11 and 17.  Pupils were also involved backstage in the technical team including lighting, sound, props, wardrobe and makeup.  The production provided pupils with the experience of performing in a professional theatre which builds their self-confidence, collaborative skills and their well-being.”

A number of individuals in my year were involved in this production and I could see the intensive nature of their work and therefore, I commend the efforts undertaken by teachers, technical crew, and cast who attended numerous weekend and after-school sessions to ensure the success of the musical. 

The musical received tremendous applause and compliments from the audiences and we look forward to future productions by the talented Productions team at Ewell Castle.