From ABC7 New York · · 1m 20s
Texas school district cancels 'Little Shop of Horrors'
Texas school district cancels 'Little Shop of Horrors' after female student cast in male lead role.
In brief
Texas school district cancels 'Little Shop of Horrors' after female student cast in male lead role. Grand Prairie ISD canceled a high school production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' due to concerns over state law compliance after a female student was cast as Seymour. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Texas school district cancels production
Grand Prairie ISD canceled a high school production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' after a female student was cast in the traditionally male lead role.
Female student cast as Seymour
A female student was selected to play Seymour, a male character who develops a romantic relationship with a female character.
District cites state law concerns
The district cited concerns over Texas Senate Bill 12, enacted in 2025, which took effect Sept. 1, 2025.
District statement on cancellation
The district said the decision was made to comply with state law and ensure students' success without diminishing their achievements.
Student reacts to cancellation
Ana Mota, the South Grand Prairie High senior, said she was frustrated after being told she could no longer play Seymour and offered a female lead role instead.
Student calls it a punishment
Mota stated the cancellation felt like a punishment to everyone in the cast rather than a compromise.
The bottom line
Grand Prairie ISD canceled a high school production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' due to concerns over state law compliance after a female student was cast as Seymour.
