Hapless florist Seymour’s life is full of broken dreams when, one day, he stumbles across a strange and interesting new plant.

Based on the film by Roger Corman, Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society (BAOS) Limelight, has brought an adaptation of the Little Shop of Horrors to the Haymarket stage.

The musical feeds off the styles of early 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and early Motown, and features as a dastardly antagonist a rampantly carnivorous plant.

The story focuses on Seymour who strikes up a relationship with a monstrous plant which promises to bring him fame and fortune, as well as the attention of kind, sweet Audrey.

As a homage to the woman that Seymour loves, he names the plant Audrey II.

Traditionally in adaptations of the film, Audrey II is played by a man, however BAOS Limelight have bucked the trend casting Queen Mary’s College student Sarah Merritt in the role.

The performing arts student will bring a new dynamic to the character when she belts out the famous line “feed me Seymour”

On talking about being part of the BAOS Limelight production the 16-year-old said: “It is like a family and I can do what I love with people who support me all the way and is so much fun.”

Founder of BAOS Limelight Stephanie Webb said that initially Sarah hadn’t even thought of the idea of auditioning for the role.

However, when she got into the swing of things the rest of the BAOS Limelight crew saw what a natural she was.

When talking about auditioning for role of the plant Sarah added: “I love the power Audrey II holds and how strange a monster plant from space is, it’s so interesting and different to play.”

The alien creature begins life as a pot plant but by the second half of the show, she dominates the stage to convince you she could be a threat to humanity.

As Audrey II is voiced off stage, she is helped in no small part by puppeteer Ryan Stevens.

BAOS Limelight is for 11-18-year-olds who are passionate about musical theatre, singing, dancing and performing.

The group encourages its members to get fully involved with all aspects of the group such as directing, choreography, marketing, ticket sales, poster design and stage management.

The idea of the group is about having fun, making new friends and developing as people, as well as skills in theatre craft.

Little Shop of Horrors will run at the Haymarket from September 26 to September 28, with a 2.30pm matinee show on the Saturday.

For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on/baos-limelight-little-shop-of-horrors.