Exeter Northcott Theatre has announced that it will return to full-scale musical production for the first time in more than 20 years with Little Shop of Horrors this autumn.
The theatre will collaborate with Lighthouse Poole and The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry on the production, which runs in Exeter from 1 to 17 October 2026, with a press night on 6 October.
The satirical musical by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman follows Seymour, a mild-mannered florist whose fortunes change after he discovers a mysterious and dangerous plant with an insatiable appetite.
Packed with iconic songs, larger-than-life characters and the infamous carnivorous Audrey II, the show promises comedy and thrills for both long-standing fans and first-time audiences.
The production marks a significant milestone for Exeter Northcott Theatre as it renews its commitment to ambitious, high-quality work rooted in its local community.
“This feels like an exciting moment for Exeter Northcott Theatre.” says Martin Berry, Creative Director and Joint Chief Executive, who will also direct the musical. “Little Shop of Horrors is bold, funny, joyful and unapologetically theatrical – and it allows us to bring together everything we believe theatre can be.”
“With this show we continue to reclaim artistic ambition, creating opportunities for artists, and making work that feels rooted in the place it’s made.”
The collaboration with Lighthouse Poole and The Belgrade reflects the theatre’s wider ambitions for national partnership and large-scale production.
“Together, we’re able to create something more ambitious than any of us could achieve alone.” notes Berry.
“Lighthouse is very excited to be working with Northcott Theatre to bring this new production of the classic rock ‘n’ roll musical to Poole,” says Katy Griffiths, Head of Programming at Lighthouse Poole. “I’m sure our audiences will love it – in fact, I can hear them now: ‘Feed me!’”
The production will feature a community ensemble performing alongside a professional cast, continuing Exeter Northcott’s focus on local participation and access.
Auditions for the community cast will take place in June, offering performers the chance to be involved in a fully professional mainstage musical.
“There’s something thrilling about bringing a cult musical of this scale and popularity to the Northcott stage, powered by collaboration, live music, and local talent.” says Berry. “It feels like a celebration of where we are now – and a statement of where we’re heading next.”
“Audrey II is the monster we create when we hand our agency to something louder, simpler and more seductive than our own values – and once it’s fed, it demands more and more.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
