GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas (WFAA) – Grand Prairie ISD has scrapped its production of “Little Shop of Horrors” after district officials learned of the show’s casting and themes, according to the district.
Ana Mota, a senior at South Grand Prairie High School, was cast as the male lead, Seymour, before school leaders told her on Oct. 6 that she would no longer play the role.
Casting changed before cancellation
Ana said callbacks are for specific roles and students do not choose which roles they audition for. She said she initially got the role of Seymour.
“Initially, I got it,” Ana said. “And now we’re here.”
Ana said school leaders offered her the chance to split the female lead with another student instead.
“I was frustrated because I had earned a role and I worked hard for it and I wasn’t allowed to play it,” Ana said.
District cites state law
Grand Prairie ISD canceled the entire production after learning about the casting and the musical’s themes, which include the male lead character developing a romantic relationship with the female lead and an abusive relationship. The district said it plans to find something it called more appropriate.
“It’s not a compromise at all. It feels more like a punishment to everyone in the cast,” Ana said.
In a statement, the district said the decision was made as part of its effort to ensure programs comply with Texas Senate Bill 12 and other applicable laws. The law restricts certain sexually oriented performances on public property in the presence of minors.
Student has played male roles before
Ana said playing male characters is not new for her.
“I played Jack in ‘Into the Woods’ and Pinocchio,” she said.
Ana and her family plans to push back on the district’s decision.
“If we keep our heads down then nothing’s going to get better,” she said.
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