Little Shop Of Horrors Audrey 2

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

01-12-2024

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The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn's life takes a dramatic turn in the off-Broadway musical Little Shop of Horrors. His discovery of a peculiar plant, affectionately (and somewhat ironically) named Audrey II, catapults him to fame and fortune, albeit with increasingly horrifying consequences. But what makes Audrey II so captivating, and so terrifying?

More Than Just a Venus Flytrap

Audrey II isn't your average houseplant. This extraterrestrial specimen, with its insatiable hunger and surprisingly soulful voice (thanks to the vocal talents of Levi Stubbs in the original film), is far more than just a carnivorous plant. Its design, a grotesque yet strangely alluring blend of Venus flytrap and something far more sinister, perfectly reflects its nature. The vibrant colours and glistening texture initially mask its true, monstrous nature, much like its seductive charm initially hides its deadly intentions.

A Symbol of Desire and Destruction

The plant's insatiable appetite acts as a potent metaphor for unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Seymour's initial naive hope transforms into desperate, immoral acts to satisfy Audrey II's hunger, highlighting the seductive yet destructive nature of unchecked desires. His desperate attempts to keep the plant alive mirror the human tendency to cling to power, even when the cost is devastating.

Audrey II's Evolution: From Bud to Beast

The plant's evolution throughout the story is captivating. It starts as an unassuming specimen, a small, almost endearing anomaly. But as it grows, its hunger intensifies, mirroring the escalating stakes of Seymour's increasingly desperate attempts to appease it. This visual transformation, from an innocent-looking plant to a gargantuan, man-eating monstrosity, effectively represents the corrosive impact of unchecked ambition.

More Than Just a Musical: A Commentary on Society

Little Shop of Horrors transcends its comedic elements to offer a pointed commentary on societal pressures and the dangers of unchecked ambition. Audrey II’s journey becomes a stark warning: sometimes, the things that promise the most can ultimately consume us. The plant’s grotesque nature isn’t just for shock value; it serves as a powerful symbol of the dark side of human nature and the potential consequences of our relentless pursuit of success, no matter the cost. The enduring popularity of the musical is a testament to the universal appeal of this timeless moral.