Classic production kicks off at The Bank Theatre Friday

There is a very hungry plant lurking around Leamington and this weekend those famous words “FEED ME” will echo throughout the uptown area.

Of course, that plant’s name is Audrey II and that famous phrase is just one of many from The Little Shop Of Horrors – the classic musical that has entertained millions around the world over the years.

Joel Lewsaw and his cast of actors at The Bank Theatre were busy this week putting the finishing touches on the popular production prior to Friday’s opening night.

Veteran director Lewsaw says the cast has worked hard to make this an entertaining experience for everyone.

Eric Minch will star as Seymour, the awkward flower shop employee who falls for co-worker Audrey — played by Becca Silvius.

Seymour adopts a carnivorous plant which he names Audrey II. There’s one big problem — Audrey II needs to eat and the more she eats, the more she grows. Seymour is obligated to find ‘victims’ to feed his ever-growing plant.

A large cast of characters includes the real Audrey’s dentist boyfriend Orin played alternately by both David Sivak and Brett Hallick. Ray Silvius shines as Mushnik, the shop owner, while many other parts are  played by local theatre veterans Melinda Lewsaw, Alex Alejandria and Melissa McLeod.

Joel Lewsaw will also supply the voice of Audrey II, which will be manned inside by Jackson Lewsaw, who will be kept busy with multiple versions of the big plant.

The play promises to be full of action, music and laughs and opens Friday, September 15 with a 7:30 pm show.

There will be two shows Saturday, with a 2:30 pm matinee and a 7:30 pm evening performance and then a matinee on Sunday at 2:30 pm.

The same schedule will be used for the following weekend — September 22, 23, 24.

Tickets are $20 plus HST and fees and are available online at banktheatre.com or at the theatre’s box office, 10 Erie Street South, Thursday to Saturday from 11-1.

The play is based on the film by Roger Corman with screenplay by Charles Griffith.