Jinkx Monsoon and Corbin Bleu to Star in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ in Off-Broadway Cast Refresh
An exciting development is on the horizon for the off-Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors at the Westside Theatre. Beginning April 2, the renowned drag queen, actor, singer, and comedian Jinkx Monsoon will assume the role of Audrey, succeeding Evan Rachel Wood. Joining her in this anticipated cast change is Corbin Bleu, who will portray Seymour, taking over from Darren Criss. Additionally, James Carpinello is set to replace Bryce Pinkham as Dr. Orin Scrivello, D.D.S. The departing cast members, Wood, Criss, and Pinkham, will conclude their performances on March 31.
Jinkx Monsoon, celebrated for winning the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, is known for her exceptional celebrity impersonations and significant contributions to the performing arts. Notably, Monsoon made Broadway history as the first drag queen to perform the role of “Mama” Morton in Chicago, a role she will reprise this summer from June 27 through July 12 at the Ambassador Theatre. This casting continues the tradition of drag performers taking on significant roles in the Howard Ashman-Alan Menken musical, following Vicky Vox’s portrayal of Audrey II at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London in 2018.
Corbin Bleu, recognized for his role in Disney’s High School Musical film series, brings a wealth of Broadway experience, having appeared in productions such as Kiss Me Kate, Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn, Godspell, and In the Heights. James Carpinello also returns to the Broadway stage with roles in Rock of Ages, Xanadu, and Saturday Night Fever under his belt.
The current cast of Little Shop of Horrors includes Stephen DeRosa as Mr. Mushnik, Aaron Arnell Harrington as the Voice of Audrey II, and a talented ensemble. The production, now in its fifth year off-Broadway, features a book and lyrics by Grammy and Academy Award winner Howard Ashman and music by Tony and Academy Award winner Alan Menken, under the direction of Michael Mayer.
This casting announcement promises to infuse new energy into Little Shop of Horrors, inviting audiences to experience the timeless musical through the unique talents of Jinkx Monsoon, Corbin Bleu, and James Carpinello.
