What do you call it when you mix a florist shop on a dodgy street, an abusive dentist, a victimized girl, a horticulture-crazed nerd, and a man-eating plant bent on keeping its stomach full no matter what?

The classic musical "Little Shop of Horrors" has come to the Mt. Hood Community College Theater this winter with direction from the head of theater department, Rick Zimmer. Its colorful stage along with colorful cast brings this famous play to life in our local theater.

It begins with poor Seymour working at his dead end job at a florist shop on Skid Row. Making pennies and dreaming of his beautiful co-worker, Audrey, Seymour finds a mysterious yet beautiful plant that’s close to death. While caring for this dying plant he names "Audrey II," Seymour soon finds out what the plant craves: blood.

The MHCC brings this story to life with colorful visuals and performance.

Each actor on the stage brings his or her own unique talent and personality. The voices on stage are amazing but overshadow the acting at moments. At times it almost seems more like a dancing choir concert than a theater production.

Rick Moranis immortalized Seymour in the 1986 movie but Zac Ellis brings his own flavor to our favorite nerd. His singing, acting, and what some would call dancing almost upstages the six-foot plant, Audrey.

Audrey is wonderfully played by Gina Russo. Her enchanting voice and comedic skills bring to life this daring victim. Dressed in a ferocious blonde wig and small black dresses, Russo does a wonderful job bringing us into Audrey's world."

The technical support deserves applause for this production, from little things like smoke seeping through the street vents and grime evident on the buildings, to the construction and science of Seymour's plant, "Audrey II." Each little detail makes this musical larger than life and that hard work should be recognized.

This play is captivating and entertaining for all ages. If the set or lighting doesn't draw you in, the actors' performance should keep you glued to your seat. If that can't make you stay put, "Audrey II" might like a word with you after the show.