Cast revealed for Little Shop of Horrors at Liverpool Playhouse

Liverpool favourite Michael Starke will return to the Playhouse this Christmas to appear in a new production of Little Shop of Horrors.

He will play flower shop owner Mr Mushnik in the cult comedy-sci fi musical which comes to the Williamson Square theatre from December 3 to January 9, 2027.

Starke previously appeared at the Playhouse for Christmas in 2016 when he played the Chairman in Michael Wynne’s music hall show The Star to mark the 150^th anniversary of the theatre.

The Brookside star also trod the stage at the Everyman at Christmas 2024 playing Debbie Updo in Rapunzel.

This year marks the 40^th anniversary of the film version of Little Shop of Horrors.

The new revival of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s stage musical is produced by Thomas Hopkins Productions and Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre and will be directed and choreographed by Olivier Award nominee Carrie-Anne Ingrouille.

She said today: “I’m so proud to be presenting this cast and this production of Little Shop of Horrors.

“Every element of the show speaks to my vision for telling this story with honesty, heart, and relevance, and that begins with the people bringing it to life on stage. 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.

“I can’t wait for audiences in Manchester and Liverpool to experience it during this very special run.” 

The production will open at Hope Mill in September before transferring to Liverpool.

Starke is joined by Emmerdale’s Jessie Elland as Audrey, along with Jed Berry as Seymour, Marcus Ayton as the voice of the voracious man-eating Audrey II and Benjamin Yates as sinister dentist Orin Scrivello.

Little Shop of Horrors is at the Liverpool Playhouse from December 3 to January 9, 2027. Tickets HERE