Star casting for Little Shop of Horrors
- Alan Hulme
- 5 minutes ago
- 1 min read
EastEnders legend and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Maisie Smith will take to the stage for her first leading musical theatre role, as the iconic Audrey in the Manchester Hope Mill Theatre premiere of hit man-eating plant comedy musical Little Shop Of Horrors in the autumn (September 25-November 29).
The production then heads for a festive season at the Liverpool Playhouse, where Jessie Elland (Emmerdale; 101 Dalmatians) will take over the role of Audrey from December 3-January 9.
Joining them in both venues will be Brookside's legend Michael Starke (Hollyoaks, Brookside, Sister Act, Hairspray), who will play Mr Mushnik.
Twenty years after its last West End run, this revival arrives at a landmark moment in the show’s history as December 2026 marks 40 years since the release of the original 1986 film directed by Frank Oz.
Director/choreographer Carrie-Anne Ingrouille said, “Maisie and Jessie lead the company with such truth and generosity as Audrey. They embody the vulnerability, strength and humanity that I believe are essential for this musical to have lasting appeal and to truly resonate with audiences today.”