Behind-the-Scenes for ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

Student-run musical performed Feb. 2-4, 2023

We asked the cast and crew of this year’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” to share their love of this modern love story with a man-eating plant for the villain.

Gabriella Federighi ’23, Student Director:

“There were times when I wanted what can be a campy show to be more emotional and balance the drama. When Audrey [female lead], played by Ava Suakjian ’25, sings the reprise of ‘Somewhere That’s Green,’ I wanted her to face the audience even though the circumstances are silly. During the whole song, she’s hugging Seymour [male lead] and looking out. Ava’s little sister was crying in the audience because she thought it was real.”

Alex Eiger ’23, Pit Conductor:

“The spring musical has always had a pit orchestra, but the student-run show never has. I saw being the first-ever student pit conductor as an opportunity for a completely new type of student involvement. I had responsibilities I had never had before. There’s not another ensemble on campus conducted by a student. It was more than just waving my hands in the air, it was about carving my mark at Saint Francis.”

Mihika Gupta ’23, Tech Director:

“Prior, I thought being a leader was merely getting things done efficiently and telling others what to do. This taught me that leadership means getting things done and making sure that everyone involved feels respected. There isn’t a point in leading a team that at the heart doesn’t feel valued.”