It is Mental Health Awareness Week. Please see the May edition of the Planet Youth Newsletter which shares details about a support toolkit, articles and helpful links about Mental Health. Also in this month’s edition there is advice and data related to substance use in young people in Highland, and information about Children’s Human Rights by Debbie Stewart, the Child Health Commissioner.
Introducing the incredible Ava Graham who will be playing Audrey. Here is what she had to say about the show:
“In my mind Audrey is a delicate and dainty character who doesn’t know how strong she really is but throughout the musical we see her tap into this and come out of her shell thanks to Seymour. Rehearsals have been amazing and its great seeing all different ages and types of people come together to just let go and have fun. Its fun to be trying so many different types of blocking and ways of portraying our characters to where we best see them fit and by this point everyone’s really become their character, I couldn’t see any other cast this talented. My favourite number so far is ‘Suppertime’ because there is so much happening and I got to engage with most of the cast that I sometimes don’t get the chance to. I loved seeing everyone committing to making this the best we can. A standout moment so far is definitely seeing all the set and the many different versions of Audrey II that appear throughout the musical, it definitely makes everything feel so much more real and like we truly are in the world of Little Shop. I believe everyone should come see the musical if they can because so much hard work has been put into this and I believe its the best show Culloden Academy has put on so far between the insanely talented class, extravagant set and the amount of time the cast and teachers have put into creating something so magical.”
Introducing Archie MacDonald who is sharing the role of Orin Scrivello.
“I play Orin, also known as the dentist. He is an evil character who tortures his patients and is addicted to nitrous oxide. He is Audrey’s boyfriend and an antagonist to Seymour due to how he treats her. Rehearsals have been great so far. I was initially nervous because I didn’t have much confidence, however, I have enjoyed playing this character and getting to know my fellow cast members.
Now ( it’s just the gas ) is my favourite number, as it is a really fun number to perform; however, from a story standpoint, I like how the audience can see Seymour morally struggling between helping Orin or feeding the plant.My standout moment for me was probably getting one of the lead roles, as I have been a part of other shows; however, I have never been in a role this big before, and since this is my last show here, I’m really glad I went for it. People should come and see Little Shop of Horrors because a lot of heart and work has been put into making a great show, and the story is great, showcasing how fame and fortune can lead you down a dark path.”
Each Friday, we shall be introducing you to our amazing principle cast and hearing about their experience of working on the show.
Introducing Orin Scrivello played by Corey Jay Larnach
“ I play the Orin, an insane, Elvis loving Dentist who loves nothing more than nitrous oxide and torturing his patients. He is Audrey’s controlling and abusive boyfriend and somebody that the audience should hate.
The rehearsals for Little Shop of Horrors have been wonderful, a fun experience and a good opportunity to get to know other people, especially those in different years.
Feed me is probably my favourite number in the show, because it’s the first time you see the plant talk and starts to control Seymour, the turning point into a much darker show.
This is not only my first lead role, but also my first ever musical! I was definitely nervous about the singing at first, but thanks to the incredible support from our music department, I’ve been building so much confidence.
I really hope people will buy tickets to the show as, in my opinion, it’s the best show Culloden’s ever put on and we are super proud of all the work we have all put into it.”
Yesterday, we held our S1 Celebration Assembly to honour the outstanding achievements of our students. These young individuals have not only excelled academically but have also consistently demonstrated their commitment to the Culloden Way and our core values of ambition, community, kindness, and respect. Well done to each and every one of you!