Thomas Doherty Joins ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ as Seymour: A New Chapter in His Career
Thomas Doherty, a Scottish actor known for his roles in Disney’s “Descendants” series and HBO Max’s “Gossip Girl” reboot, is poised to make his New York stage debut as Seymour in the off-Broadway revival of the beloved musical “Little Shop of Horrors.” This highly anticipated performance begins on September 5 at the Westside Theatre, creating buzz among theater enthusiasts and fans alike.
### The Musical and Its Legacy
“Little Shop of Horrors,” a cult classic with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, has charmed audiences since its inception in the 1980s. The story centers around a hapless florist, Seymour Krelborn, who inadvertently raises a plant that thrives on human flesh. With memorable songs like “Skid Row (Downtown),” “Somewhere That’s Green,” and “Suddenly, Seymour,” the show explores themes of ambition, love, and the unexpected consequences of our desires.
Doherty will star alongside Madeline Brewer, known for her roles in “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “You,” who will take on the role of Audrey, Seymour’s love interest. The duo’s pairing is highly anticipated, given both actors’ solid backgrounds in film and television alongside their burgeoning theater skills.
### Doherty’s Journey to the Stage
Doherty expressed his excitement about joining the cast, highlighting the personal significance of the role. He revealed that “Little Shop of Horrors” was the first show he performed in as a child in Edinburgh. “To be doing it now in New York City — alongside the incredibly talented Madeline Brewer — is a real dream,” he stated. This heartfelt connection to the musical adds emotional depth to his portrayal, as he returns to his roots on such a prestigious platform.
While Doherty has achieved considerable recognition in film and television, including credits in Hulu’s “Paradise,” “Tell Me Lies,” and the epic miniseries “Catherine the Great,” his passion for musical theater has always been evident. In a 2021 interview featured in Variety’s Power of Hollywood issue, he spoke candidly about his desire to strengthen his singing and dancing skills, hoping to transition to stage performances. “There’s nothing better than the stage… It’s just so open and it’s free — and the energy,” he remarked, foreshadowing his commitment to making this role successful.
### The Impact of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’
Casting Doherty as Seymour adds a fresh layer to the ongoing revival of “Little Shop of Horrors,” which continues to attract new audiences while retaining its loyal fans. The show’s combination of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments has solidified its status as a timeless piece of musical theater. By bringing in a contemporary figure like Doherty, the production aims to bridge generational gaps, appealing to both younger viewers familiar with his screen work and traditional theatergoers who have loved the musical for decades.
### Audience Expectations
With the show’s history and Doherty’s multi-talented background, audience expectations are understandably high. Fans and critics alike will be keen to see how he navigates the complexities of Seymour, a character often depicted as both sympathetic and hopelessly naive. The character’s emotional range, from comedic moments to darker themes, necessitates a strong compelling performance, something Doherty is well-positioned to deliver.
Brewer’s portrayal of Audrey, often seen as an embattled and vulnerable character, will undoubtedly intertwine with Doherty’s Seymour in unique ways, providing opportunities for dynamic stage interactions. The chemistry between the two will be critical to exploring the love story central to the narrative, offering viewers an engaging and relatable experience.
### What Lies Ahead
As Doherty prepares to step into such an iconic role, his journey serves as an inspiration for emerging actors navigating their paths in the competitive entertainment landscape. His transition from screen to stage symbolizes the fluidity between different mediums in the performing arts, encouraging actors to expand their skill sets and pursue their passions aggressively.
In an industry often dominated by rapid changes and unpredictability, Doherty’s commitment to returning to the stage exemplifies the importance of versatility. It reminds aspiring performers that their career trajectories can be as diverse and multifaceted as the characters they portray.
### Community Response
Initial reactions to the casting announcement have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans are expressing their excitement on social media, celebrating both Doherty’s theatrical debut and his return to a show that holds personal significance for him. The sense of community within the theater world is palpable as attendees eagerly await the chance to experience the magic of “Little Shop of Horrors” live, especially with such a fresh interpretation.
Moreover, the off-Broadway setting allows for a more intimate connection with the audience, heightening the excitement surrounding Doherty’s performance. This environment will likely enhance the emotional resonance of the story, engaging audiences in a way that large-scale productions sometimes cannot.
### Conclusion
As Thomas Doherty embarks on his role as Seymour in “Little Shop of Horrors,” he steps into a cherished tradition within musical theater. His journey, marked by both nostalgia and ambition, highlights the power of storytelling through song and stage. With Madeline Brewer by his side, audiences can expect a captivating experience filled with humor, heart, and the unexpected thrills that come from choices made in the pursuit of love and success.
The revival promises not only to honor the legacy of “Little Shop of Horrors” but also to breathe new life into its performances and spirit, with Doherty at the helm. As he prepares for opening night, theater lovers everywhere are ready to explore the darker side of horticulture in Skid Row, where the real magic lies in the connections formed on stage and the stories shared with each performance.
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