[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/audreyII.jpg” caption=”Audrey II, the venus fly trap-like plant in Little Shop of Horrors, is played by Matthew Bergen and Matt Moore. “]
src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=mcmasterdailynews"> >

The McMaster Musical Theatre (MMT) club is gearing up to take on a man-eating plant.

For the last few weeks MMT has been busy transforming Hamilton's Westside Concert Theatre into something worthy of New York's Broadway for their rendition of Little Shop of Horrors, the musical about a florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. The show's plot revolves around the relationship between Seymour Krelborn (Alex Doyle) and Audrey (Haley Midgette), but if you ask anyone involved with MMT they'll tell you the production is a complete team effort.

"We're a family," said MMT President Sarah O'Sullivan, who plays Crystal, one of three characters based on 1960's doo-wop girl group members. "It's not even the show that we all love most, it's the people. We spend a lot of time bonding at social events and gatherings and it shows in the great teamwork behind the scenes."

Listen to the cast perform the Finale (Don't Feed the Plants).

In fact, there has been just as much preparation for the show behind the curtains as there has been in front, with a team of vocal coaches, choreographers, make-up artists, sound and light technicians and others all volunteering their time to ensure the production goes off without a hitch.

"We've really pushed the cast members to reach their full potential and they've absolutely exceeded expectations," said choreographer Lindsay Nicol. "It's been a joy to see our vision become a reality. We really have a talented cast."

The current MMT "family" is certainly talented, but they could have competition from some of their distant "relatives" - Martin Short, Eugene Levy and Ivan Reitman are among the best-known MMT alumni.

Though the cast and crew have been rehearsing non-stop for the last number of days, director Ashley McAskill won't be able to relax until the curtain goes up on opening night.

"At that point, the show is in their hands," she said. "But I'm confident that they'll be outstanding."

MMT was founded in 1972 and has brought a number of performances to Hamilton, including Jesus Christ Superstar, The Who's Tommy and Footloose. Little Shop of Horrors opens tonight (Feb. 19), 8 p.m. at the Westside Concert Theatre. Tickets are $12 for students/seniors, $20 general admission. For more information see the
MMT website.

Stay connected