The school's latest production, Little Shop of Horrors, involves more than 70 pupils in a musical extravaganza which tells the tale of a lonely loser, Seymour Krelborn and his secret love, the ditzy but pretty Audrey, as they work in a rundown urban florist shop and dream of a better life.
There are plenty of laughs in store for the audience, despite a fair bit of bloodshed, actors Caleb Dawson-Swale, Rick Gutzewitz and Alana Potts assured the Queenstown Times.
"It is all a bit tongue in cheek, the murder and the violence," said Caleb, who plays the role of Seymour.
The arrival of an unusual plant at Mushnik's Skid Row Florists leads them to a realisation of their mutual feelings - but not before unleashing mayhem, which leads to a disastrous conclusion.
Bringing the show to life had been a labour of love for all involved and, with seven hectic weeks of preparation - which included daily rehearsals - behind them, the cast members were keen to to show audiences the result of their hard work.
Although the show, with its rock and roll and doo-wop score, is set in 1960's "skid row" America, the young cast have had plenty of material to get a feel for the time and place.
While the original 1960 movie and its remake in 1986 had a very different ending, Rick, who brings cranky shop owner Mr Mushnik to life, said he had watched them, "which helped give me a feel for the show".
Both Caleb and Rick were keen to continue with acting. Caleb has been in previous musicals and has some film experience, "so this is right up my alley".
Playing the ditzy ex-prostitute Audrey was fun, but Alana said she would pursue a diploma in hospitality management over a stage career.
Tickets are available by contacting the school office on 442-7370, and cost $15 for adults and $10 for students.
Friday's show was filling fast, but there were still plenty of seats left for tonight and Thursday night.
The show runs until Friday at the Memorial Hall, starting at 7pm each night.
