Texas District Cancels Musical After Girl Cast as Seymour

Grand Prairie Independent School District canceled South Grand Prairie High School’s planned production of Little Shop of Horrors after senior Ana Mota was cast as Seymour, a male character in the musical. The district cited the show’s themes and its effort to comply with Texas law, while Mota said she was told she could no longer play the role about a week into rehearsals. Mota said she was offered the option of sharing the role of Audrey, the female lead, with another student. The production was later canceled. In comments reported by local media, Mota said she had worked for the part and felt the cancellation affected the entire cast. She has previously played male roles, including Jack in Into the Woods. In a statement, the district said it considered the musical’s romantic storyline and themes involving an abusive relationship before deciding to pull the production and find a more appropriate alternative. It said the decision was part of its ongoing effort to comply with Senate Bill 12 and other applicable laws.