A HEREFORDSHIRE theatre director has spoke of the value of the arts after a two years without a musical.

The Conquest Theatre in Bromyard, Herefordshire is days away from its long-awaited opening of its first musical, Little Shop of Horrors after a two year hiatus.

After a challenging 18 months for the arts, the volunteer-run charity theatre in Tenbury Road, Bromyard, is making the final touches to the sci-fi horror musical Little Shop of Horrors which runs from October 19-23.

There are six performances, with a live band playing an electric soundtrack, and a story which is brought to life by a raft of talented actors and backstage crew.

The theatre has also recently invested in its auditorium, installing new seating, to improve its visitor experience.

Rebecca Cook is directing the show, and said it is great to be back in the theatre doing what she loves, and the atmosphere in rehearsals has been brilliant.

She said: “There is such a buzz and energy in every rehearsal which we definitely missed during the pandemic."

“I think since the pandemic, all of us value and make the most of every rehearsal even more. There are always plenty of laughs, smiles – as well as a bit of silliness!”

She said everyone should see Little Shop of Horrors as it has a brilliant live band as well as a super talented cast.

“The team has worked extremely hard to bring to life a fantastic love story... with a twist,” she said.

Tickets for Little Shop of Horrors, by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, can be bought online via the theatre’s website: conquest-theatre.co.uk.