EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence High School Musical Theatre troop presents "Little Shop of Horrors" as its annual spring production for the 2014-15 term.

"Little Shop of Horrors" has its origins to renowned "B" film director Roger Corman, whose film of the same name debuted in 1960. The crux of the story is about a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh.

Some 20 years later, composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman adapted the film for the stage. The comedy horror rock musical made its Off-Broadway debut in 1983. A second film, starring comic legend Steve Martin among others, came to screens in 1986. Menkin's original score is in the style of early 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and Motown.

"After taking 'Phantom of the Opera' last year, I think we were all in the mood for something lighter and upbeat," explained EPHS Theatre production director Patrick Mark Saunders. EPHS teacher MaryAnn Lasorsa serves as the show's musical director.

"Compared to the drama of 'Phantom,' 'Little Shop' finds the humor even in its darkest moments by indulging in just how ridiculous and campy the whole premise is," Mr. Saunders continued. "A poor schmuck finds an exotic plant and starts to finally get everything he wants: a father, wealth, fame, success, and, most importantly, the love of his life.  Despite it's strange appearance and its diet of blood, Seymour (the schmuck) doesn't question the plant's own ulterior motives until after he has committed murder for it.  Twice.  Then it dawns on him that his 'exotic plant' is really an alien monster bent on world domination."

The main cast of characters includes junior Josh B. Audino as "Seymour Krelborn," senior Lauren Vine as "Audrey," junior Dean Hernandez as "Mushnik," senior Sean DaRosa as Audrey II (voice), senior Alex Dorego  as the puppeteer, junior Grace Voll as "Chiffon," junior Marissa Browning as "Crystal," and sophomore Allana Turcotte as "Ronnette."

The curtain raises for the EPHS Theatre troop's production of "Little Shop of Horrors" on are Thursday, March 26, at 7 p.m. in the Arthur Elmasian Auditorium. Weekend dates are Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $7 for students and $15 for adults in advance, $20 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the EPHS main office.