The young performers visited two Swindon organisations with links to this year’s musical, giving the public a glimpse of what to expect when the show opens in August.
The day began with a visit to Mental Health Motorbike Wiltshire, where the cast met volunteers and learned more about the charity’s work supporting the wellbeing of the motorcycling community.
The visit also teased one of the production’s standout moments, with a real motorbike set to appear on stage during the show.
The cast then headed to independent florist The Flower Pot in Old Town, posing among colourful floral displays that reflected the setting of Seymour’s flower shop in the musical.
Thankfully, there was no sign of the man-eating plant Audrey II hiding among the bouquets.
The visits showcased the Summer Youth Project’s links with the local community while giving young performers the opportunity to take part in a large-scale theatre production that extends beyond the stage.
Running from 13th to 15th August, Little Shop of Horrors tells the story of Seymour, a struggling florist living on Skid Row whose life changes after discovering a mysterious plant that appears to offer fame, success and love. As the plant grows, its appetite becomes increasingly dangerous.
Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, the cult musical features well-known songs including Skid Row (Downtown), Suddenly Seymour, Dentist! and Feed Me (Git It!), combining comedy, horror and rock-and-roll.
The Wyvern Theatre’s Summer Youth Project brings together up to 200 young people aged between nine and 21 for an intensive two-week rehearsal period before they perform a full-scale musical under the guidance of professional directors, choreographers, musicians and technical staff.
As well as staging the iconic giant plant, this year’s production gives hundreds of young people the chance to gain first-hand experience of performing in a professional theatre alongside industry professionals.
Little Shop of Horrors runs at the Wyvern Theatre from 13th to 15th August. Tickets are available now.
