"Little Shop of Horrors," the outrageous musical comedy about a carnivorous houseplant, will be presented by Coastal Carolina University Theater on Friday, Nov. 9 and Saturday, Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Nov. 11 at 3 p.m. in Wheelwright Auditorium. Admission is $10 and $5 for students under the age of 18.

Based on Roger Corman's low-budget 1960 cult film, "Little Shop of Horrors" was an Off-Broadway sensation when it premiered at the Orpheum Theater in 1982, eventually becoming the most successful musical in Off-Broadway history. The story concerns a meek florist's assistant named Seymour who discovers an unusual plant, which he names Audrey II after his salesgirl sweetheart. The plant becomes a phenomenally fast grower after Seymour discovers that its favorite food is blood. Audrey II and its owner strike a Faustian bargain whereby the plant guarantees fame and fortune for Seymour, who in turn must keep his creepy discovery well supplied with its favorite plant food.

"This is a fun show, with quirky characters and memorable songs," says Brian T. Vernon, assistant professor of musical theater at Coastal and director/choreographer of the production. "The story is narrated by a chic, gutsy female vocal trio that serves as a kind of Greek chorus, and the music is done in 1950s retro style. The ending may surprise those who are familiar only with the 1986 movie version with Rick Moranis."

For more information, contact the Wheelwright Box Office at 349-2502.