Alpine Theatre Project performs 'Little Shop of Horrors'

A giant, man-eating plant from outer space will invade the Whitefish Performing Arts Center when Alpine Theatre Project presents “Little Shop of Horrors” July 5-21.

The musical comedy runs Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 6 p.m., with a special family matinee at 2 p.m. July 21.

“‘Little Shop’ is a perfect all-ages show,” said Betsi Morrison, Alpine Theatre Project’s artistic director — and the show’s director. “It’s funny, it’s tuneful and it’s got a talking, singing, man-eating plant on stage. What more could you ask for?”

One of the longest-running off-Broadway shows of all time, “Little Shop of Horrors” is an affectionate spoof of 1950s sci-fi movies, and has become a household name thanks to a highly successful film version starring Rick Moranis and Steve Martin. It was written by the songwriting team of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, who helped redefine the Disney movie musical with “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin.”

“Little Shop of Horrors” tells the tale of a mysterious new plant that arrives from outer space, discovered by the hapless Seymour Krelborn. The plant quickly makes Seymour an overnight celebrity but at a diabolical cost, as we learn that this plant feeds on only one ingredient: human blood.

The show features Alpine Theatre Project’s trademark talent from Broadway, film and television, including actor Bob Amaral, who starred on Broadway in “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” as well as the Broadway National Tours of “The Producers” and “The Lion King.”

The show also stars favorite Alpine Theatre actors Aaron Vega as Seymour, Rebecca Spear as the ditzy Audrey and Nick Spear as the sadistic dentist, Orrin Scrivello.

Tickets start at $20. Call 862-SHOW or visit atpwhitefish.org for tickets and information.