Here's Ellen Greene and Jake Gyllenhaal's performance of the iconic "Suddenly, Seymour" during the July 2nd matinee performance of Encores! Off-Center's 2015 concert production of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken's "Little Shop of Horrors." This video also features Tracy Nicole Chapman as Chiffon, Marva Hicks as Crystal, and Ramona Keller as Ronnette.
In a text interview with Playbill soon after the production, Ellen had this to say of the performance: “At the end of ’[Suddenly,] Seymour’ I was spent - a song that is difficult for me, for in the lyrics I confess that, ‘Nobody ever treated me kindly.’ The frightening reality of being vulnerable, opening up, letting go, and giving in and trusting. 'Please understand it’s still strange and frightening for losers like I’ve been, it’s so hard to say…’ Today the word 'loser’ is used as a punchline, a put down, but the feeling down on oneself, having a low self esteem - the reality of feeling that word - well, it hurts and drains you causing a helplessness, as if there is a bottomless black hole. Well, during the matinee, I just lost myself in that well of helplessness, sadness and emptiness. I felt like I was hearing that lyric in such a new way, opening up a wound so old and deep. I lost myself in the echo of loneliness, and I did not come in with the next 'Suddenly Seymour,’ but Jake came in with his entrance. He rescued me out of my and Audrey’s reverie through his compassion, empathy and dearness that he so kindly gave me and showered on me. He helped me to get through that rendition of a very emotional song, and I was grateful.” ("Ellen Greene On Her Little Shop Ovations, Working with Jake Gyllenhaal and Future Plans" - Playbill Online)
This concert production was directed by Dick Scanlan, choreographed by Patricia Wilcox, and featured musical direction by Chris Fenwick.
Due to the recent nature of this production, and this recording, only a selection of songs and clips will be uploaded. Any messages or comments inquiring about how to obtain a copy of this recording will be ignored.
8 сен 2015
