Origins of Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors
Audrey is the kind-hearted plant-shop worker and love interest in Little Shop of Horrors, created by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken for the original 1982 off-Broadway musical. The role was written for a distinctive countertenor-led vocal style and has been played by multiple actresses across stage, film, and tours. The most commonly associated performers depend on medium: the 1986 film cast, notable stage revivals, and subsequent concert or staged concert productions.
Film Cast: Audrey Fulquard
In the 1986 film directed by Frank Oz, Audrey Fulquard is portrayed by actress Ellen Greene. Greene, a veteran stage and screen performer known for her work in musical theater prior to the film, brought dramatic depth and warmth to the character. Her performance of songs like "Somewhere That's Green" and "Suddenly, Seymour" became definitive for many fans, establishing a lasting image of Audrey in popular culture.
Ellen Greene and the 1986 Film
Ellen Greene’s casting aligned with her strong background in musical theater and cabaret. Her vocal delivery suited the show’s blend of rock, pop, and Broadway styles. The film’s success anchored her portrayal as the benchmark for subsequent adaptations, even as other productions recast the role on stage and in touring companies.
Stage Origins and Early Casts
Off-Broadway in 1982, the role of Audrey was created by actress Lee Wilkof, who originated the character in the intimate theater setting of the Orpheum Theatre. Wilkof’s performance helped shape the role’s blend of vulnerability and sass. Other early notable stage Audrey performers include those in subsequent regional, London, and professional touring productions, each tailoring the role to different vocal registers and staging approaches.
Key Stage Performers by Era
Stage history reveals evolving interpretations of Audrey. In major revivals and tours, casting choices adjusted to suit principal vocalists and creative teams while preserving the character’s core empathy and narrative function within the show.
Notable Stage and Concert Performers
Across various productions, several prominent actresses have brought their own interpretation to Audrey. Notable stage revivals and staged concerts have featured performers with strong belts, nuanced acting, and stylistic flexibility to match the show’s shifting tone from dark comedy to heartfelt drama.
- Early Off-Broadway: Lee Wilkof originated the role in 1982.
- 1986 Film: Ellen Greene defined Audrey on screen.
- Subsequent Tours and Revivals: Multiple actresses have carried the role into new productions, often selected for vocal strength and stage presence.
Comparison of Notable Audrey Performances
| Production | Audrey Performer | Medium | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 Off-Broadway | Lee Wilkof | Stage | Created the role; original off-Broadway cast |
| 1986 Film | Ellen Greene | Film | Became the best-known portrayal; key songs defined the character |
| Subsequent Tours/Revivals | Various | Stage | Cast to suit vocal demands and regional creative choices |
Legacy and Impact
Ellen Greene’s film performance remains the most widely recognized depiction of Audrey, but the stage has seen a spectrum of compelling portrayals. The role’s demands—blending sweetness, vulnerability, and resilience—have ensured ongoing interest from casting directors and performers. Each interpretation contributes to the character’s enduring presence in musical theater and popular culture, reflecting changes in vocal style, staging, and narrative emphasis over time.