Little Shop of Horrors Blooms at Hawker College

Posted on 9 September, 2025

Hawker College’s take on iconic musical Little Shop of Horrors is set to captivate Canberra audiences when it plays at Murranji Theatre this Thursday 11 and Friday 12 September.

This beloved tale of Seymour, his carnivorous plant Audrey II, and the residents of Skid Row promises to be a theatrical treat that’s equal parts charming, energetic, and delightfully disastrous.

While Little Shop of Horrors was last performed at Hawker College 25 years ago, this 2025 production brings fresh interpretations and new energy to the classic show. Toby Breach, who plays the meek floral assistant Seymour, explains the appeal.

“This show is a mixture of comedy and horror and is full of charm. Everyone in this show is lovable from adorable innocence to sadistic satire, and this really allows actors to shine.”

For Piper, who takes on the iconic role of Audrey, the production offers something special in today’s world.

“Theatre is a setting that allows students to be silly and not take themselves too seriously,” she says.

“Our society, especially in our generation, is dominated by cringe culture that makes fun of people for caring about something or having goals and ambitions. Theatre is a space free of that.”

The show’s most demanding character isn’t human at all – it’s the bloodthirsty plant Audrey II, which has proven to be both the biggest challenge and highlight of rehearsals. Jack, who plays the shop owner Mr Mushnik, describes the complexity.

“It looks really spectacular, but it is incredibly difficult to puppet and requires a lot of people working in unison to make it look lifelike.”

Toby agrees that the plant has been central to the production experience.

“From constructing, learning the mechanics, and puppeteering, Audrey II has been such a pivotal and colossal factor of this production. It’s been buckets of fun and also buckets of stress, but I definitely think it has paid off.”

What sets this production apart is the genuine connections being forged both on and off stage. Jack emphasises theatre’s role in building community.

“In an era where people are becoming increasingly isolated by technology, theatre provides a platform where real people can connect face-to-face.”

The cast’s favourite moments reflect this collaborative spirit. Both Toby and Jack cite “Mushnik & Son” as a standout – a high-energy tango that showcases the dynamic between their characters in wonderfully absurd ways. Meanwhile, Piper’s heart belongs to “Suddenly, Seymour,” which she describes as both a family favourite and her personal highlight to perform.

Even those familiar with the famous 1986 film adaptation should prepare for surprises. The stage version includes additional scenes and songs not featured in the movie, and the cast promises some Easter eggs for keen-eyed audiences.

“What people don’t know are the circumstances around Audrey II and all of the beauty to be found within the characters of the show that is separate from the main plotline,” Toby teases.

For first-time audiences, Piper believes the entire experience will be revelatory.

“It’s such a compelling story that makes the audience feel so many things, and I think anyone seeing it for the first time would have to come back for a second round.”

Beyond entertainment, this production represents something vital for the next generation. As Toby reflects, “Theatre is such an important and intimate form of storytelling that just can’t be recreated on a screen or streaming service. Sitting down, relaxing, and sharing a moment with a group of people, who are all living this moment at the same time, is absolutely precious.”

And Hawker College is offering audiences more than just a show. Standard tickets are $15 for adults and $10 concession. But for the full experience, the $50 VIP dinner and show package includes a themed meal prepared by the college’s hospitality students.

“I’ve spoken to some of the hospitality students, and their food is going to be inspired by the show,” Piper reveals. “Eating this before the show would make the experience a lot more immersive, and like you’re in the setting.”

Little Shop of Horrors runs at Hawker College’s Murranji Theatre for two nights only. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this production promises an evening of laughter, thrills, and genuine theatrical magic. Just remember – don’t feed the plants!