Known for its musicals, dramas, and comedies, Broadway has also dabbled in the macabre with a number of darker productions. This dark side of theatre has given us some fan-favorite shows and fantastic performances. Two productions stand out for their enduring popularity: Little Shop of Horrors and Hadestown. Although starkly different in their tone, both these shows prove that when done right, sinister narratives can become a staple of musical theatre.
Little Shop of Horrors originated as a low-budget, dark comedy film in 1960, but it wasn't until the off-Broadway musical adaptation in 1982 that it truly came into its own. The show centers around the meek Seymour, who works at Mushnik's Skid Row Florists. Seymour stumbles upon a strange and exotic plant, which he names Audrey II after his co-worker and the object of his affection, Audrey. However, Audrey II is no ordinary plant, demanding to be fed with human blood. As it grows, its appetite becomes insatiable, leading Seymour down a dark path.
Over the years, Little Shop of Horrors has seen several successful runs, both on and off-Broadway. Its blend of humor, horror, and catchy doo-wop-inspired tunes has made it a fan favorite. The show’s quirky characters, particularly the blood-thirsty Audrey II, have become iconic figures in the world of musical theatre. While maintaining the core elements that make it so beloved, each new production of Little Shop of Horrors brings its own flair.
Creating Audrey II, the man-eating plant, is undeniably one of the most unique and challenging aspects of staging Little Shop of Horrors. Over the years, the design of Audrey II has evolved, with each iteration becoming more complex. Initially, Audrey II was a relatively simple puppet, but as technology advanced, so did the plant. The current production features a series of more intricate puppets that require several operators to bring to life. Built by Monkey Boys Productions under the direction of Nicholas Mahon, this monstrous plant never fails to send a shiver down the audience's spine.
The 1950s-inspired costume and scenic design also play a significant role in creating the show's nostalgic yet oddly timeless feel. The characters' outfits, from Seymour's nerdy attire to Audrey's iconic white dress, are instantly recognizable and help to anchor the story in its era. Meanwhile, the scenic design by Julian Crouch creates a world that is at once familiar and bizarrely alien.
The musical score of Little Shop of Horrors is as much a character in the show as Seymour, Audrey, or even Audrey II. Infused with the infectious energy of 1960s rock and roll and the soulful rhythms of Motown, the music is a key element that sets the show apart from other horror-themed productions. The score, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, offers an array of catchy tunes that range from the upbeat title track to the hauntingly beautiful "Somewhere That's Green." The contrast between the upbeat, often humorous songs and the dark, increasingly horrifying plot creates tension that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
Another grim Broadway gem, Hadestown is a Tony Award®-winning musical that brings to life a tale inspired by ancient Greek mythology. The story introduces us to the idealistic poet Orpheus and his beloved muse, Eurydice, as the star-crossed lovers grapple with hardship and the promise of a better life in the underworld, better known as Hadestown. Entranced by the allure of stability, Eurydice gives in to the charismatic Hades, god of the underworld, and descends into his realm, causing Orpheus to embark on a quest to reclaim his love, armed with nothing but his music. Simultaneously, we witness the strained relationship between Hades and his wife, Persephone.
Hadestown's journey to Broadway is a tale in itself, tracing its roots back to 2006. The show began as a community theater project in Vermont, conceived by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell. Mitchell’s concept album, which she performed in concert settings, blended elements of folk, jazz, and blues and ended up capturing the attention of director Rachel Chavkin. Together, Mitchell and Chavkin began the process of transforming the concept album into a full-fledged stage production. The first theatrical version of Hadestown premiered at the New York Theatre Workshop in 2016. The show then crossed the Atlantic for a sold-out run at the National Theatre in London. In 2019, Hadestown made its Broadway debut at the Walter Kerr Theatre.
The stage and costume design of Hadestown are key components that contribute to the musical's dark aesthetic. Rachel Hauck's stage design is a feat of innovation, offering a richly textured industrial world reminiscent of a rustic, Depression-era factory. An ever-spinning turntable, a descending spiral staircase, and the atmospheric use of lamps and overhead lighting create an environment both intimate and expansive, effectively transporting the audience to the underworld and back.
Costume designer Michael Krass channels the same ethos into the clothing of Hadestown's inhabitants. The workers in the underworld, faceless and obedient, are clad in overalls and work boots, reflecting the mechanical nature of their existence. Hades, the ruler of this realm, stands out in his sharp business suit, exuding an aura of authority and control. His wife, Persephone, brings a touch of vibrancy to the otherwise monochrome palette, her attire changing with the seasons, reflecting her duality as the goddess of both the underworld and vegetation. For Orpheus and Eurydice, their costumes evolve with their journey. Orpheus begins as a carefree poet in his simple attire, while Eurydice's dress reflects her struggle with poverty. As the narrative progresses, Eurydice's descent into Hadestown sees her don a worker's uniform, her individuality lost to the underworld. Orpheus' transformation is marked by a coat, symbolizing his resolve to brave the cold and reclaim his love.
Experiencing Little Shop of Horrors and Hadestown live on stage is a thrilling adventure that every theatre enthusiast should embark on. The creativity and craftsmanship that go into these productions can only be fully appreciated in a live setting. So, whether you're a seasoned Broadway aficionado or a newcomer to the world of theatre, don't hesitate to see these shows. Prepare to be amazed, entertained, and perhaps a little scared as you explore the darker side of Broadway.