Harry Blossoms in Summer Comedy Horror Musical Role

A black comedy musical about a plant called Audrey II, who is literally a man-eater, aims to get audiences rocking with laughter at Sheringham this summer.

Little Shop of Horrors, which is part of the Little Theatre’s professional repertory drama season, stars a mysterious and murderous plant discovered in a flower shop and intent on world domination.

The show has earned a cult following since it was launched on Broadway in 1982, with its grisly goings-on set to a 1960s style soundtrack based on rock and roll, doo-wop and early Motown.

And the actor playing the plant, Harry Wyatt, knows the production well, having made his directing debut when the show was staged at the theatre by its youth group back in 2017, when he also appeared as one version of the ever-growing, bloodthirsty flower.

He said: “I love the show, it’s my favourite musical – combining some great music with a silly story, lots of heart, some strong over-the-top characters, and a plot which has fans waiting for their favourite bits, with newcomers wondering what will happen next.”

Harry has been acting at the theatre since he was 10, appearing as a shoeshine boy in Bugsy Malone, before working his way up the amateur ranks to the lead in a youth version of Phantom of the Opera. After qualifying as a professional actor, he has become regular at pantomime in Sheringham and Harrogate as well as singing on cruise ships.

“I’m so excited and can’t wait to do this show again in the summer season,” added Harry whose parents live in North Walsham.

The cast also includes Jonathan Iceton as meek shop worker Seymour Krelbourn, local apprentice actress Lucy Connor as his girlfriend Audrey, and Donald Forbes as shop owner Mr Mushnik. Professional Anu Akinseyi is joined by youth theatre members Attia Law and Sofia Millington as urchins Crystal, Ronnette and Chiffon, who take their names from the music of the era.

Theatre director Debbie Thompson said: “I remember the original show in which young Harry starred, directed and even made all the costumes, so when he joined our summer cast this year we jumped at the chance to do it again, as it approaches its 40th anniversary.”

The show is not recommended for youngsters under the age of 10. It runs from August 5-6, 8. 10-11. 24-25.

Other upcoming summer dramas are:

· Night Must Fall – psychological thriller involving murder and manipulation in the home of a wealthy old woman – (Aug 19-21, 26-27)

· On the Edge – premiere of the winner of SLT’s inaugural playwriting competition, a gentle comedy set in a clifftop home – (Sept 2-5)

For tickets visit HERE or call the box office on 01263 822347.