Old Rochester Regional High School senior Jackson Veugen isn’t considering a career in dentistry any time soon, but Veugen has embraced his role as Orin, the sadistic dentist in ORR’s upcoming spring performance of “Little Shop of Horrors.”
The ORR Drama Club will take the stage on March 21, 22 and 23 at 7:00 pm and March 24 at 2:00 pm.
Veugen, who has been involved in drama, did not want the role of this archetype villain at first but now feels the role was meant for him. Veugen auditioned for one of the “plant roles” in this adventure, but director Maxx Domingos had something else in mind for him: Orin.
“I’m glad that happened,” Veugen said, but conceded jokingly, “I don’t think anyone is supposed to like this character.”
Other ORR actors also can relate to their respective characters and are looking forward to bringing the quirky comedy to the stage.
Seniors Jorge Carrillo and Mackenzye Caton will take the stage in their first leading roles. Carrillo will play the lead male Seymour Krelborn, and Caton will play Krelborn’s love interest Audrey.
Caton said she remembers watching an old “black and white version” of the musical with her nana. Caton said Audrey was her favorite character, along with the plant-based Audrey II. Caton said her nana will be attending the performance, deepening her emotional ties to the play and the character.
Carrillo said he related to Rick Moranis’ portrayal of Seymour.
“He spoke to me, and I loved the lines he delivered. I thought I could fit that character,” Carrillo said.
Eloise Casi landed her preferred role as Ronette, a talking urchin.
“I really wanted to be part of the singing ensemble,” Casi said, but got more than what she bargained for. “It’s fun singing, and I get to be part of the storytelling aspect of the show.”
Other principal characters include Aidan Silk as Mr. Mushnik, Emerson Roy as Audrey II (voice), and the following students as urchins: Chloe Bean, Casi, Alia Cusolito, Kennedy McKay, Amanda Tomasso and Emily Wyman.
Music direction will be done by Jenna Kendall and the sound design by John Farrell.
The musical will be Domingos’ sixth as director and assistant director’s Sarah Whinnem’s fifth.
General Admission is $15 and students and senior citizens $12. Tickets are available at the Marion General Store, Isabelle’s in Mattapoisett, Friends’ Marketplace in Rochester and at the door for all performances. Eventbrite is selling tickets online (small service fee added) at bit.ly/ORRDrama-LittleShop-2024.
ORRHS Drama Club
By Jeffrey D. Wagner