Central’s “Little Shop of Horrors” – Talent, Energy, & a Man-Eating Plant

Seymour Krelborn (senior Preston Hudson) pleads with the plant, Audrey II, for a break from feedings in Central Theatre’s *Little Shop of Horrors.*

April 3, 2025
By Rachel Scofield

Pickerington High School Central’s theatre department is set to take audiences on a thrilling, hilarious, and slightly terrifying ride with its production of Little Shop of Horrors. The musical, known for its catchy tunes and larger-than-life characters, has been a labor of love for the cast and crew, who have been preparing since January.

The darkly comedic musical follows Seymour Krelborn (senior Preston Hudson), a meek and down-on-his-luck florist’s assistant who discovers a mysterious and unusual plant that he names Audrey II (senior Veronica Tuttle), after his coworker and secret crush (senior Penelope Dunger).

As Seymour nurtures the plant, he quickly realizes that it has a sinister secret—it thrives on human blood. As Audrey II grows larger and more demanding, Seymour is tempted by the promise of fame, fortune, and love, but soon finds himself caught in a dangerous bargain that spirals out of control. With a mix of 1960s-inspired music, humor, and horror, the show explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked greed.

Audrey (senior Penelope Dunger) dreams of a better life with the Do-Wop Girls – Crystal (junior Gabi Stagg), Chiffon (senior Isabella Mathurin) and Ronnette (senior Autumn Mallory).

Tuttle shared her enthusiasm for the production process. “I obviously like being up there with my friends and working with all the cast and crew and directors on a really cool show.”

The cast’s camaraderie and dedication are reflected in every aspect of the show, from the impressive vocal performances to the engaging storytelling. Hudson emphasized how the production draws audiences of all ages. “It truly appeals to everyone. It is so entertaining, so lively, and it has a really great message that adults are really attracted to, but I also feel that little kids are going to love a giant man-eating plant.”

Beyond the captivating story and characters, Hudson is especially proud of the musical elements in this year’s show. “I love the music. I have personally been able to show every aspect of my range comfortably and really just envelop myself with the music. The cast sounds great. When we have all our big numbers—all the harmonies blend so well. The music in this show is so impactful because it changes styles and mood throughout the entire musical.”

Little Shop also marks a significant milestone for Pickerington Central, as it features a live pit band—a rarity in recent years. Dugger praised the pit musicians (composed almost entirely of students) for their dedication and talent. “Everyone in the band is so talented and deserves so much praise.”

Pit band and choir director Jacob Miller echoed this sentiment. “Our students are some of the hardest-working and most dedicated performers in high school theatre on the planet. The questions they ask, the seriousness they put into every rehearsal, and the unbelievable talent that we have just all meshed together to create a fun process and create a beautiful show.”

With its unique story, dynamic performances, and a fresh approach to musical accompaniment, Little Shop of Horrors is set to be an unforgettable experience. Hudson hopes audiences come in with open minds and leave thoroughly entertained. “I think if people come to see it, I hope they come with zero expectations. It’s so different and something Central is not really known for, so I really think the unexpected factor of this show is really going to draw people in.”

Pickerington High School Central’s Little Shop of Horrors. directed by Andrew Martin, runs April 3–5 at 7 p.m. in the school’s performing arts center, with a 3 p.m. matinee on April 6. Tickets are $15 each and may be purchased online at the Pickerington Tiger box office.