Theater enthusiasts will be excited for what La Porte High School has in store for the remainder of the week. On Wednesday, April 10, the curtains opened for family members to have a first glimpse at 'Little Shop of Horrors'.
Sallie Hanson, play director and costume designer, describes what theme this performance intends to convey toward the audience.
“This play is about the underdog and how we can all hope to better ourselves,” Sallie said. “I think it's a very relatable piece to many because it's about being in a poor place and how you just want to improve to get out of there.”
The students have been working on this performance since the turn of the new year.
“This whole experience for the kids to build relationships with each other and learn new skills is why we do it,” Sallie said. “Seeing how much they've grown from January until now has been amazing.”
Her husband Tim Hanson, assistant play director and Performing Arts Center Director, was thrilled to do 'Little Shop of Horrors'. This play has always been an unforgettable one for him and Sallie.
“Sallie and I were doing this show together the summer we met more than 30 years ago,” Tim said. “This is the first time we’ve done it together since so it’s very exciting for us.”
Christian McGuire, who played the role of Seymour, was excited to have a lead role in this play. He acknowledges a variety of reasons as to why this performance will always hold a special place in his heart.
“I would best describe it as a comedy with plenty of drama,” McGuire said. “There’s plenty of chaos and great music. I adore all of the singing and it’s been an absolute blast. This is my fifth show and it’s definitely been one of my favorites.”
Five shows later for McGuire and he continues to find new ways to make each performance a highlighting moment.
“I’ve learned to just go out there and do it with confidence,” McGuire said. “Doing things in a different way is something that I enjoy with each play we do.”
Kairah Ohima, who played the role of Audrey, has been in several performances in recent years. While she’s played various parts in her theater experience, she describes how this one was unique from any other.
“From my character’s perspective, I think it’s about coming out of your shell and learning how to love yourself,” Ohima said.
“I’ve done theater since seventh grade and my knowledge expands with each performance. This storyline is very different because there’s plenty of serious issues that I haven’t really tackled before.”
Much like McGuire, Ohima has loved working on this play. One of the biggest reasons why was because of the cast, crew and directors that made it all happen.
“I appreciate them a ton,” Ohima said. “Everybody has been so kind and supportive that it’s given me plenty of memories to carry with me. Each time I come, there’s more stuff on the set or new costumes. They’re always doing something.”
All of the students were delighted to perform in front of their families after putting in long days of hard work leading up to the show.
“They’ve all worked so hard to come together and make it really good,” Tim said. “These students are amazing and their hearts are so big. We’ve become a big family doing this together.”
The curtains will open to all for the remaining days. You can catch Little Shop of Horrors on Thursday and Friday at 6 p.m., along with Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.
For more information on La Porte High School, you can visit their website.