Ethan Slater, the acclaimed performer known for his role as SpongeBob SquarePants in the Broadway adaptation of Nickelodeon’s beloved animated series, has shared his reflections on the impactful journey that began in his teenage years. Now, at 34, he continues to evolve as an actor, currently appearing as Seymour in the Off-Broadway revival of *Little Shop of Horrors*.
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Slater’s career took off when he debuted in *SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical*, which opened its doors on Broadway in December 2017. With original music from a variety of well-known artists including Panic! at the Disco and Sara Bareilles, the production garnered critical acclaim and twelve Tony Award nominations, securing a win for scenic design. Slater’s portrayal of the energetic sea sponge earned him his first Tony nomination, establishing him as a recognised face in the theatre community.
Reflecting on his time with the show, Slater expressed immense gratitude for the experiences and lessons learned during its development. He embarked on the journey of creating SpongeBob while still a teenager, an opportunity he refers to as akin to graduate school for performers. “It was the experience of a lifetime,” he recalled in an exclusive interview. Through extensive development, Slater gained invaluable insights into performance and character, shaping his career in the years that followed.
Central to the show’s success was the strong camaraderie among the original cast members. Slater has maintained close ties with his fellow performers, including Danny Skinner and Lilli Cooper, describing the collective experience as a bonding adventure among “misfit toys.” This spirit of friendship has remained a vital aspect of Slater’s journey in the competitive theatre world, even as he transitions into new roles.
Although *SpongeBob SquarePants* closed on Broadway in 2018, its influence persists. The production has inspired numerous adaptations by schools and amateur theatre groups, with Slater taking great pride in its continuing legacy. He often likens it to seeing a child grow and flourish independently, appreciating how the show now belongs to anyone who chooses to portray its characters.
As Slater’s career unfolds, he has embraced new challenges. Last month, he took on the role of Seymour Krelborn in *Little Shop of Horrors*, a character that starkly contrasts with the optimistic SpongeBob. Audiences have noted the vocal similarities between the two roles, leading to humorous commentary surrounding his performances. Slater lightheartedly acknowledged this connection, stating, “I’ve noticed audiences reacting as if Seymour sounds like SpongeBob, but I remind them that SpongeBob sounds like me.”
The Off-Broadway revival of *Little Shop of Horrors* presents a far darker narrative, revolving around the meek flower-shop employee Seymour, whose aspirations lead him to uncover a sinister plant with an insatiable appetite for human flesh. Slater described the musical as “brilliantly written” and lauded its blend of humour and heartfelt storytelling.
Returning to the stage in a musical format has allowed Slater to reconnect with the vibrant theatre community. He has been moved by the diverse audience attending his performances, from long-term fans of the theatre to those experiencing live productions for the first time. “The combination of those connections makes this theatre community special,” he summarised, illustrating the joy of being back within such a supportive environment.
As excitement builds around *Little Shop of Horrors*, tickets are now available, offering audiences the chance to witness Slater’s evolution as a performer in this cherished theatrical revival. His journey, from the animated antics of Bikini Bottom to the darker themes of *Little Shop*, exemplifies his versatility and commitment to dynamic storytelling in the ever-evolving world of theatre.