Forty years after Little Shop of Horrors first brought Audrey II, Skid Row and “Somewhere That’s Green” into pop culture history, fans will have the chance to celebrate the cult classic with the woman who made Audrey unforgettable.
Actress Ellen Greene, who originated the role of Audrey in the original stage production and reprised the character in the 1986 film adaptation, will host a special 40th anniversary screening tour across the country beginning this August. The multi-city event will give audiences the rare opportunity to experience the beloved musical on the big screen alongside Greene herself.
Produced by Scott Stander, the anniversary celebration will feature a live conversation with Greene before each screening, along with a special performance of Audrey’s signature ballad, “Somewhere That’s Green.” Select VIP packages will also include a meet-and-greet, signed memorabilia and a photo opportunity with Greene.
A Cult Classic That Continues To Grow
Directed by Frank Oz, Little Shop of Horrors follows Seymour Krelborn, a shy florist who discovers a mysterious plant with an unusual appetite. As Audrey II helps Seymour gain fame and success, the plant’s demands become increasingly dangerous, forcing him to choose between ambition and the woman he loves, Audrey.
The 1986 film, based on the stage musical with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, has remained a favorite for generations thanks to its unforgettable characters, catchy songs and emotional core.
Greene believes the story’s lasting appeal comes from its ability to balance fantasy with real human experiences.
“The play and the film both have heart. You enter a magical land that has both whimsy and also has a moral to tell with deep underpinnings. It’s a complex piece that looks simple. You feel for these people, and you can relate to them,” Greene said.
Ellen Greene’s Audrey Has Only Deepened With Time
For Greene, Audrey has never been just a character from a musical. Over the years, she has found new layers in the woman behind the pastel dresses, big dreams and unforgettable voice.
A defining moment came in 2015 while performing alongside Jake Gyllenhaal at New York’s City Center.
“Right in the middle of singing ‘Suddenly Seymour,’” Greene recalled, “it hit me that this was the secret sauce to my Audrey. With tears pouring out of my eyes, it became clear to me that Audrey’s lack of self-esteem comes from knowing what it feels like to be a loser, a feeling that lies in the deep recesses of her heart.”
She continued, “I can relate to that, for I, too, have known tremendous loss and what it’s like to feel not good enough or worth the love that you are aching for. So much of Audrey I have stolen from my own personality, so yes, my Audrey has only deepened over the years.”
That emotional connection has always been central to Audrey’s most iconic song.
“Audrey’s dream is everyone’s dream, especially today,” Greene said. “We all want somewhere where we feel at home, where we can be our authentic selves. A home full of love and someone to love us back. Sometimes it feels very unattainable.”
Greene added that she immediately connected with the song when she first heard it. “I cried the first time I heard ‘Somewhere That’s Green’. I was standing on the unemployment line at the time and I could immediately see and feel my Audrey deep inside of me, waiting to be born.”
Honoring The Legacy Of Howard Ashman
The anniversary tour also serves as a celebration of the late Howard Ashman, whose lyrics helped define Little Shop of Horrors and influenced generations of musical theater fans.
For Greene, the continued love from audiences is a tribute to the creative team behind the production.
“People who have loved and supported this show for over 44 years have my heartfelt gratitude,” she said. “When they keep Little Shop alive, they keep my sweet friend Howard Ashman alive, who I loved very much.”
The tour will visit theaters across the country, including stops in California, Washington, Massachusetts, New York and more before concluding with a special New York City performance.
Little Shop Of Horrors 40th Anniversary Screening Tour Dates
Aug. 14, 2026 — Riverside, CA — Fox Performing Arts Center
Aug. 15, 2026 — San Diego, CA — Balboa Theater
Aug. 16, 2026 — San Francisco, CA — Curran Theater
Aug. 18, 2026 — Seattle, WA — The 5th Avenue Theatre
Aug. 21, 2026 — Detroit, MI — Fisher Theater
Aug. 23, 2026 — South Bend, IN — Morris Center
Aug. 26, 2026 — Reno, NV — Pioneer Center
Aug. 28, 2026 — Boston, MA — Emerson Colonial
Aug. 30, 2026 — Patchogue, NY — Patchogue
Sept. 23, 2026 — Denver, CO — Paramount Theatre
Sept. 25, 2026 — Washington, DC — Lincoln Theatre
Sept. 26, 2026 — Baltimore, MD — Exchange
Oct. 18, 2026 — Anaheim, CA — The Grove
Nov. 10, 2026 — Jacksonville, FL — Florida Theatre
Nov. 13, 2026 — Atlanta, GA — Atlanta Symphony
Jan. 27, 2027 — Palm Springs, CA — Plaza Theatre
Feb. 20, 2027 — New York, NY — Town Hall
Tickets for the Little Shop of Horrors 40th Anniversary Screening Tour are available now, click here for details.
