NEVER work with children or animals is the old adage but nobody has ever said anything about treading the boards with a large man-eating plant.

Phase II, the adult version of the successful Summer Youth Project, is looking for budding stars to join the cast of Little Shop Of Horrors.

Auditions for the full-scale musical are on Sunday, February 1, at the Wyvern Theatre and application forms are available from the box office now.

The co-ordinator of Phase II, Darren Edwards, who is also the marketing assistant at the theatre, said: "Little Shop Of Horrors is a fantastic show with some fabulous musical numbers. It will appeal to people of all ages.''

As with the youth project, Phase II is designed to give a true taste of professional theatre and all its disciplines, including backstage and front of house.

"It is one of those things that brings people together from all over the community who might not normally get the chance to be part of such a fantastic event,'' said Darren.

Phase II runs from Sunday, April 4 to Saturday, April 17, at the Wyvern and is open to people aged from 16 to 35.

Last year, Copacabana was a huge success and the stars both on stage and behind the scenes benefited from a team of professionals showing them the ropes.

Darren said: "Last year's performance was truly spectacular and in my opinion even outshone a professional tour of the same show. This year will be no exception.''

Application forms must be returned to the theatre by Friday. For more information telephone 01793 535536.