In a celebration of cinematic history, Alan Menken has reflected on his collaboration with the late Howard Ashman, particularly regarding “Little Shop of Horrors,” which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this December. Released on 6th October in 4K Ultra HD format, the film has not only gained a loyal following over the decades but has also played a pivotal role in shaping Menken’s illustrious career.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/LITTLE-MERMAID-Little-Shop-Of-Horrors-100526-8a293f5b2d6a46b3923495c597f42e76.jpg)
Menken shared insights with PEOPLE about the profound impact of “Little Shop of Horrors” on both his and Ashman’s lives. The film marked a significant turning point for the duo, transitioning them from struggling artists to major players in the entertainment industry. “Little Shop was the jumping-off point for everything that followed,” he commented, highlighting the film’s importance, both personally and professionally.
The musical comedy, which originated as a stage production prior to its film incarnation, has seen renewed popularity, with a current off-Broadway revival reportedly surpassing the original run in audience engagement. Menken expressed his delight at the enduring appeal of the story, stating, “Little Shop seems to be only gaining power as a musical and as an experience for audiences, and that is unexpected and absolutely delightful.”
Menken has described “Little Shop of Horrors” as a “touchstone” in his career, crucially contributing to the creative formula he and Ashman developed during their subsequent work with Disney. He noted that their collaboration set the stage for the success of animated classics like “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Aladdin.” Menken fondly recalled how he and Ashman affectionately dubbed Ariel’s iconic song “Part of Your World” as “Somewhere That’s Wet,” drawing a humorous comparison with Audrey’s song, “Somewhere That’s Green.”
The legacy of Ashman, who passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1991, continues to resonate in contemporary musical theatre. Menken credited Ashman with skillfully crafting relatable narratives for classic characters, enabling them to speak in ways that resonate with modern audiences. He pointed out that Ariel, for example, embodies the characteristic of a typical teenage girl with aspirations of belonging, stating, “It’s just built into the essence of the song: that innocence and that sense of ‘I dream of this.'”
The success of “The Little Mermaid” not only solidified their partnership but also played a fundamental role in the Disney Renaissance—an era from the late 1980s to the late 1990s when the studio revitalised its animated storytelling through engaging musical compositions. This period saw a resurgence in Disney’s animated films, reinforcing a shift towards more ambitious narratives and character development driven by song.
As “Little Shop of Horrors” approaches its 40th anniversary, Menken’s memories of working alongside Ashman serve as a reminder of the power of creative collaboration. Their ability to weave complex themes into accessible stories has undeniably shaped the landscape of musical theatre and animated films alike. This renewed release of “Little Shop of Horrors” is more than just a nostalgia trip; it’s a chance for new audiences to engage with a work that has left an indelible mark on the artistic community and beyond.
The film’s transition to 4K UHD serves as a testament to its enduring legacy and relevance. Menken’s reflections on his journey with Ashman highlight the transformative power of creativity in the face of adversity, making their collective achievements all the more resonant as they continue to inspire future generations in the realm of musical storytelling. As fans celebrate the film’s milestone anniversary, the influence of Menken and Ashman remains unequivocally vital to the ongoing evolution of both theatre and cinema.