**Ellen Greene Reflects on the Enduring Legacy of *Little Shop of Horrors* Ahead of 40th Anniversary**
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As the 40th anniversary of *Little Shop of Horrors* approaches on December 19, actress Ellen Greene, who famously portrayed the character Audrey, shares her nostalgic memories of the show’s inception and its lasting impact. At 75, Greene recalls her journey through the world of theatre during the 1970s, a path that would ultimately lead her to meet celebrated lyricist Howard Ashman.
Though Greene initially harboured reservations about the musical, she eventually found her connection with Ashman integral to her involvement. In a conversation with PEOPLE magazine, she admitted, “I wasn’t enamoured” with the subject matter of a campy musical revolving around Skid Row. However, her relationship with Ashman proved significant when they met during her stint in *Seven Deadly Sins*, which allowed her to reassess her feelings towards the show.
During an unemployment period, Greene experienced a pivotal moment while listening to the song “Somewhere That’s Green.” This moment prompted an emotional revelation, stirring feelings she felt had been dormant. “Tears fell down, and I realised there was an Audrey inside of me waiting to be born,” she recalled. Following that powerful moment, Greene approached her audition with newfound confidence, allowing her instincts to shape her portrayal.
The evolution of Greene’s connection to the character deepened as she performed “Somewhere That’s Green” for Ashman and composer Alan Menken. The intimate setting of a small room only heightened the experience. “I ended up in tears, and so were Howard and Alan. We were bonded for life,” she reminisced. This emotional exchange set the stage for the collaborative spirit that characterised the early development of *Little Shop of Horrors*.
Greene’s partnership with Ashman was pivotal not just for her portrayal of Audrey, but also for the musical’s integrity. She boldly suggested eliminating an unnecessary S&M-themed number, arguing that the essence of the story was profound enough to stand alone. Ashman was receptive to her insights, and their teamwork fostered a creatively rich environment as they refined the show together.
The actress also shared her vision of Audrey’s physicality, wanting to portray her as a vibrant character who embodied the charm of a 1950s woman. To achieve this authenticity, Greene purposely gained weight, aiming to present a character that could evoke a blend of laughter and sorrow. “I wanted her zoftig, ripe enough to fall off a tree like a juicy peach,” she explained.
Despite early creative tensions regarding how Audrey should be depicted, Greene’s interpretation ultimately shaped the character that audiences have come to adore. “I insisted, ‘She doesn’t have to be this way. This is my interpretation,’” Greene said, highlighting her commitment to creating a unique persona for Audrey. The whimsical character soon began to influence the entire cast, as they started to emulate her distinctive mannerisms.
Reflecting on the artistic process, Greene expressed pride in the production that was crafted with limited resources but an abundance of love. “I received just $50 a week for a month of rehearsal,” she laughed, recalling the humble beginnings of the show. Yet, the musical became an overnight sensation, resonating deeply with audiences.
More than four decades later, Greene continues to be moved by the enduring popularity of *Little Shop of Horrors*. “It’s remarkable that 44 years later, we are still here,” she remarked. She cherishes the stories shared by fans who tell her how the musical has affected their lives across generations, whether performed in community theatres or enjoyed in its new 4K UHD format. Each performance, she believes, helps to keep Howard Ashman’s spirit alive.
As fans gear up for the anniversary of this beloved production, Greene’s heartfelt reflections on her time with *Little Shop of Horrors* underscore the joy and connection that live theatre can inspire. With excitement surrounding the film’s new release, the legacy of Ashman and Greene’s wise portrayal of Audrey continue to thrive, proving that great art withstands the passage of time, resonating through countless experiences shared by audiences around the globe.