**T.R. Knight and Hannah Cruz Set to Star in Off-Broadway’s ‘Little Shop of Horrors’**
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T.R. Knight and Hannah Cruz are stepping into the spotlight as they take on the lead roles of Seymour and Audrey in the acclaimed Off-Broadway revival of *Little Shop of Horrors*. This much-anticipated casting will begin on 27th October at the Westside Theatre in New York City, succeeding Ethan Slater and Betsy Wolfe, who will conclude their performances on 25th October.
Producers Tom Kirdahy, Robert Ahrens, and Hunter Arnold expressed their excitement about the new additions, stating, “We couldn’t be happier to have T.R. and Hannah join the *Little Shop of Horrors* family. There is something deeply special about Seymour and Audrey, and we’re excited to see these two wonderful actors bring their own heart and spirit to the roles.” They further noted their gratitude in welcoming Knight and Cruz into the musical’s legacy and emphasized their anticipation for audiences to experience their interpretations of these iconic characters.
T.R. Knight, famously known for his portrayal of Dr. George O’Malley in *Grey’s Anatomy*, returns to the New York stage with this production. His previous roles on Broadway include performances in *Stranger Things: The First Shadow*, *It’s Only a Play*, *A Life in the Theatre*, *Noises Off*, and *Tartuffe*. The 53-year-old actor’s remarkable career, punctuated by an Emmy nomination, bodes well for his participation in this beloved musical.
Hannah Cruz has also made a name for herself in recent years and is recognised for her Tony Award-nominated performance as Svetlana Sergievsky in the recent revival of *Chess*. Cruz’s impressive trajectory includes originating the role of Inez Milholland in *Suffs* on Broadway and her work Off-Broadway in *The Connector*. Her appointment as Audrey marks a notable step in her rising career.
The timing of Knight and Cruz’s arrival at *Little Shop of Horrors* is particularly significant. The Michael Mayer-directed revival has recently made history by surpassing 2,210 performances. This milestone establishes it as the longest-running production of the musical, eclipsing the record set by the original 1982 Off-Broadway engagement at the Orpheum Theatre.
The current revival of *Little Shop of Horrors* began its previews on 17th September 2019, officially opening a month later on 17th October. Not only has it received accolades from the Drama League, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk awards for musical revival, but it remains a captivating experience for theatre-goers.
The musical, famous for its engaging score by Alan Menken and book and lyrics by Howard Ashman, follows the story of Seymour, a hapless employee at a flower shop who develops an unrequited affection for his colleague, Audrey. Seymour’s life takes a dark turn when he discovers a mysterious, carnivorous plant named Audrey II, which initially brings prosperity but has an insatiable and dangerous appetite.
Additionally, alongside Knight and Cruz, the ensemble cast includes Claybourne Elder as the dentist Orin Scrivello, Christian McQueen as the voice of Audrey II, and Christine Wanda, Savannah Lee Birdsong, and Morgan Ashley Bryant in various supporting roles. Stephen DeRosa will also reprise his role as Mr. Mushnik, beginning his performances again on 29th September.
As excitement builds around this new chapter for *Little Shop of Horrors*, tickets are now available for purchase through 23rd January 2028, ensuring that fans of theatre have ample opportunity to witness Knight and Cruz breathe new life into these beloved characters. This production continues to draw attention, showcasing its lasting appeal and the talent it attracts, securing its place in off-Broadway history.