Chicago Tribune
- Somewhat Recommended
"...As for protagonist Seymour, Hogan is endearingly innocent at first and navigates the character’s moral dilemmas as he continues to feed Audrey II in exchange for newfound financial security and fame. There’s a quintessential cautionary tale about the cost of success wrapped up in this wacky comedy."
Chicago Reader
- Highly Recommended
"...For fans of the musical, this is a solid and enjoyable interpretation, with a pretty boffo eye-popping ending, to boot. For fans of musical comedy with a sci-fi/horror twist, it’s a good seasonal bet."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"...Tonight, Music Theater Works unveiled their look at this fun musical. Directed by Kyle A. Dougan on a set designed by Shane Cinal in the smaller theater at The North Shore Center For Performing Arts in Skokie, we watched a very talented cast take on this adorable story that has been around for three decades and is still adorable ( and also perfect for the Halloween season)."
Chicago Theatre Review
- Recommended
"...It's been a minute since Chicago enjoyed such a superbly performed production of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's clever, captivating musical satire. This exciting and expertly crafted production arrives just in time for Halloween and slays, like most other shows by Music Theater Works. It's sure to be remembered for years to come. The production features some of Chicago's finest talent performing, capably supported by Linda Maldonia's Musical Direction and her talented backstage band, as well as Reneisha Jenkins spirited 1960's Choreography. In addition to a thoroughly entertaining script and an unforgettable musical score, this musical will charm audiences to heed its final warning: "Don't Feed the Plants!""
Buzz Center Stage
- Highly Recommended
"...Music Theatre Works’ Little Shop of Horrors, featuring music by Howard Ashman and a book and lyrics by Alan Menken, is the ultimate Halloween and fall musical for cult hit fans. This spooky, yet fun production captures the essence of the beloved story, making it a must-see for the season."
The Fourth Walsh
- Highly Recommended
"...LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is a fun visit to Skid Row! The play is especially a treat for families around Halloween. In this production, the music and the comedy are particularly alluring. And nod out to Najee Musiq Rawls (voice of Audrey II) whose sultry baritone zings the "Suppertime" humor. You'll want to get Down to Skid Row to see this plant!"
Third Coast Review
- Recommended
"...As books become films become musicals become films and on and on, the criticism is often that there are no new, original ideas out there. But it could also be said that all these adaptations mean we as the audience get to consume our favorite stories in whichever medium we prefer. And in the case of Little Shop of Horrors, the version on stage now is a delightful way to enjoy this familiar, fun show."
Splash Magazine
- Highly Recommended
"...The frighteningly fantastical musical, Little Shop of Horrors, has arrived just in time for Halloween to make audiences scream with laughter. From the award-winning duo of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and ALADDIN), Little Shop of Horrors, is a sci-fi horror comedy meets love story meets rock musical, as a carnivorous plant from outer space takes over meek Mushnik's Flower Shop employee Seymour's life and threatens to ruin his hope of finding love with his secret crush, Audrey."
BroadwayWorld
- Highly Recommended
"...The current production at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie is the Howard Ashman/Alan Mencken (Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin) comedic/creepy musical Little Shop of Horrors. Under the direction of Kyle A. Dougan, this small cast creates a story that is at once funny but also horrifying plus it has a few tender moments."
