The applause was loud and clear.
Those who were fortunate enough to experience the Bridgewater-Raritan High School Theatre Arts production of Little Shop of Horrors shared their appreciation for what they witnessed—a musical of the ages.
And the ages who delivered what is being touted as one of the finest shows ever performed at Bridgwater-Raritan High School were students, not paid professionals.
Over three days—Thursday, April 16, through Saturday, April 18—four performances were presented in the newly renovated Bridgewater-Raritan High School auditorium before a robust and energized crowd that certainly shared their satisfaction.
According to the Bridgewater-Raritan High School Theatre Arts, Little Shop of Horrors is a story set in a struggling flower shop on Skid Row. The story follows Seymour Krelborn, a meek and well-meaning employee who suddenly finds fame and fortune after nurturing an unusual plant he names Audrey II.
As the plant grows larger and more demanding, Seymour must grapple with the consequences of feeding its hunger while chasing his dreams of success and love. Blending humor, catchy rock, doo-wop, and R&B-inspired music, and a touch of sci-fi horror, the show has become a beloved staple of musical theatre.
The Bridgewater-Raritan High School students followed the guidance of their splendid supervisors and played this script to perfection on stage, while equally skilled students worked flawlessly behind the curtain in their stage crew roles.
But let the audience tell you more.
Dr. Laura Bassett, who served as the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District’s Supervisor of Arts Education from July of 2017 until she became the Principal at the Eisenhower Intermediate School in February of 2023, and was replaced in her role by Matt McCarthy, was extremely moved by all facets of the production.
“Little Shop of Horrors was nothing short of outstanding. The incredible sets, costumes, and lighting design brought us right into the world of Skid Row, and each version of Audrey II was a masterpiece,” Dr. Bassett stated. ” It was thrilling to watch our talented Bridgewater-Raritan High School students embody such authentic, well-crafted characters.”
Dr. Bassett continued with her glowing review.
“Every time the full ensemble was on stage, their power vocals and energy filled the theater–you could feel the packed house respond with enthusiasm. This was a truly memorable performance and a testament to the talent and dedication of everyone involved.
Another person with a sharp eye for talent in acting is Tracy Nerger, an English Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher at the Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School.
“The show was amazing. The set was top-notch, and the leads were fantastic and perfectly cast. I have seen Little Shop of Horrors many times Off-Broadway, and this Bridgewater-Raritan High School production was the best I have seen,” Ms. Nerger claimed.
She promoted the show to her colleagues on Friday, April 17.
“The school production - especially the sets and the Audrey II - was on par with what I have seen in more professional productions. I went to school today (April 17) and told everyone to see the show if they had the chance. It is definitely worth the"r time.”
Theodora Lambert, the Principal's Secretary at the Hamilton Primary School, agreed with Ms. Nerger.
"Looks and sounds like a Broadway production. Amazing that these are high school students," Ms. Lambert said.
Barry Walker, a long-time member of the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District Board of Education, offered his appraisal.
“It was a fantastic show,” declared Mr. Walker, who has been a frequent audience member at numerous shows and concerts during his 12 years on the Board of Education."Students' performances showcased their talents, skills, and passion to a very enthusiastic audience of classmates, family, and friends."
Three Bridgewater-Raritan High School staff members, Abbe Rubin, Lauren Amisial, and Kristin Bonczek, were among the captivated audience.
“Little Shop of Horrors" was a huge success. What a great show,” said Ms. Rubin, who serves as the Library Media specialist at the high school. “The performers truly showed their talents. The singing, dancing, and acting were all excellent.
“Thank you for a fun evening."
“Little Shop of Horrors was awesome,” said Ms. Amisial, who is a Student Assistance Counselor for Bridgewater-Raritan High School's Grades 10 and 11. “There was so much talent on that stage. I was thoroughly impressed!
“Aside from the efforts of the adults involved, our students were absolutely phenomenal. The amount of talent displayed through the actor portrayals evoked emotion and a sense of investment in each character’s story" lines,” declared Ms. Bonczek, a Physical Education and Health Teacher who also coaches volleyball, basketball, and softball at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. “While the student staff members managing the light and sound booth, stage crew, stage hands, and the puppets weren’t visible to the audience, their presence was felt through their abilities behind the scenes, which allowed this show to run with abundant success!”
“Congratulations to all who were involved!”
Ms. Bonczek closed with this powerful comment.
“Bridgewater-Raritan School’s rendition of Little Shop of Horrors was the most impressive high school production I have ever seen.”
Click this link below for the full program.
Bridgewater-Raritan High School Theatre Arts Little Shop of Horrors full program
Here are short video clips to enjoy watching this brilliant performance.
Little Shop of Horrors video 1
Little Shop of Horrors video 2
Little Shop of Horrors video 3
Little Shop of Horrors video 4
Little Shop of Horrors video 5