A MUSICAL is set to bring horror, humour, and one very hungry plant to the stage.
Skipton Musical Theatre Company will present Little Shop of Horrors at Skipton Town Hall from October 21 to 24, marking the group’s first-ever production of the cult-classic show.
The timing is fitting, as 2026 also marks the 40th anniversary of the 1986 film adaptation starring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Steve Martin.
Jay Cundell-Walker, director of the production, said: "Little Shop of Horrors is a bit of a change of direction for Skipton Musical Theatre Company.
"After the enormous cast of last year’s Shrek, this year we’ve gone for something altogether smaller, bringing a much more intimate cast to the stage, along with a whole range of puppets to add to the fun.
"It’s opened up a completely different set of opportunities for the company and, as we’ve discovered, quite a few new challenges.
"But perhaps most importantly, it’s turned out to be remarkably topical.
"We’re living in a world where artificial intelligence is developing at a pace that can sometimes make you wonder whether the machines are eventually going to take over.
"So, while everyone else is worrying about AI, SMTC would like to offer some very simple advice: Don’t Feed the Plant!
"Because if we’ve learned anything from Little Shop of Horrors, giving something clever, hungry, and increasingly difficult to control exactly what it wants is probably not the best idea.
"And unlike AI, at least we can see Audrey II coming!"
The story follows Seymour Krelborn, a timid florist’s assistant whose discovery of a mysterious plant brings him a shot at fame, fortune, and love—at a deadly cost.
As the plant’s appetite for blood grows, Seymour finds himself trapped between ambition and horror.
Neil Wilnes will star as Seymour, with Olivia Walmsley as Audrey and Martin McCulley as Mr Mushnik.
K. Ellis takes on the role of Orin, the sadistic dentist, while Selina Oakley voices the man-eating plant, Audrey II.
The cast also features Gem Tetley, Laura Lipscombe, and Jess Oakey as the Urchins.
Behind the scenes, Mike Gilroy serves as musical director and Meryll Mohan-Smith leads choreography.
The show, known for its catchy songs, dark humour, and unforgettable plant puppet.
This will be SMTC’s first time performing Little Shop of Horrors in its 100-year history.
The production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International and is classified as an amateur performance.
Audience members can expect an evening of laughter, music, romance, and a healthy dose of horror.
Show times are 7.30pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with two performances on Saturday at 2.30pm and 6.30pm.
Tickets are priced at £22, with under-16s able to attend the Saturday matinee for £18.
Tickets can be purchased in person at Skipton Town Hall or online through its website.
The company hopes the show will appeal to both long-time theatre fans and newcomers.
With a smaller cast and a focus on puppetry and character work, the production promises a fresh experience for audiences.
SMTC has described the show as “hilarious and horror-filled,” offering something “rather different” from their previous productions.
As the company prepares to bring the story of Seymour, Audrey, and Audrey II to life, they invite the community to join them for an evening of musical mayhem.
The production team is confident that both the comedy and the chills will leave a lasting impression.
As director Mr Cundell-Walker put it: "Don’t Feed the Plant!"
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