Ellen Greene reflects on Little Shop of Horrors as the beloved musical celebrates 40 years

Forty years after Little Shop of Horrors first charmed audiences with its irresistible blend of comedy, horror, romance, and unforgettable music, Ellen Greene still speaks about Audrey with the same warmth and affection that made the character an icon. On August 18 at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre, fans will have the rare opportunity to celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary — with Greene herself — during a nationwide screening tour, produced by Scott Stander. The event includes a live interview, a performance of Audrey’s signature ballad “Somewhere That’s Green,” and exclusive VIP meet-and-greet opportunities.

About the Role

As the actress who originated the role of Audrey off-Broadway in 1982 and reprised it in Frank Oz’s beloved 1986 film, Greene remains at the heart of one of musical theater’s greatest cult classics. Greene described Audrey as more than just a quirky character: “She’s the heart of the play. It has great music and a wonderful book, and it pulls you into this magical land full of whimsy that also has a very strong moral underneath.”

Greene explained how she built the character from the inside out, collaborating closely with lyricist and book writer Howard Ashman. “She was just a sweet brunette on the page. Howard Ashman loved me and allowed me to create her,” she said. Greene dismissed the idea of external inspiration: “There was no inspiration. She came from inside. I just knew who she was waiting to be born.”

She recalled standing in the unemployment line when she first heard “Somewhere That’s Green.” “The song touched me immediately,” Greene said. “I usually have to learn a song, but this one came out naturally. I knew who Audrey was inside.” Greene detailed the physical and vocal work that shaped Audrey, from gaining weight to soften her appearance to developing the character’s unique speech pattern, wardrobe, hairstyle, and makeup.

Challenges and Collaborations

One of the film’s biggest technical challenges was working alongside the massive puppet Audrey II. Greene and Rick Moranis performed entire scenes at just 12 frames per second so the footage would appear natural when sped up in postproduction. “I had to learn to act, sing, and dance in 12 frames per second,” Greene recalled. “Frank Oz taught me something completely new, and I’m very proud of that work.” She praised Oz’s direction and the film’s practical effects: “Only Frank Oz could have pulled off that plant. There was no CGI. Everything was done by people.”

Despite starring alongside comedy legends like Steve Martin, John Candy, and Bill Murray, Greene described the set as surprisingly serious. “Everyone loved the work, but making that film was a real undertaking.” She shared fond memories of filming “Suddenly Seymour,” including 53 takes walking up a romantic set of steps, and the infamous “Yes, Doctor, Sorry, Doctor!” sequence with Steve Martin. “He takes comedy very seriously,” Greene said. “And so do I.”

Behind the Scenes

Greene discussed the film’s original ending, which mirrored the stage musical’s darker conclusion where Audrey and Seymour both die. Test audiences reacted negatively to Audrey’s death, prompting a reshoot months later to create the happier ending audiences know today. “They loved the film until I died,” Greene laughed. “Then they lost the audience.”

She emphasized the moral themes of Little Shop of Horrors: “The moral is about greed, power, fame, and money. If that’s what you’re seeking, you’ll become someone you don’t like. It’s about ethics, integrity, authenticity, and truth.”

Event Details

STG presents Little Shop of Horrors’ 40th anniversary special screening and Q&A on August 18 at the 5th Avenue Theatre. The event includes a live interview with Ellen Greene, a performance of “Somewhere That’s Green,” and VIP meet-and-greet opportunities. More information is available at www.stgpresents.org/events/little-shop-of-horrors.