Students at Western Albemarle High School hit the stage Thursday for this year's spring musical, "Little Shop of Horrors." But before the curtain goes up on opening night, funding concerns have the drama department hoping for a hit.
The play is about a man-eating plant and the dark humor surrounding it. Drama teacher Caitlin Pitts says it's a show students are ready to rally behind. She thinks the fun, high-energy choice will draw in new audiences and keep the department afloat for another year.
"Choosing a play that I feel confident that enough people are going to want to come see, that we'll be able to fund," Pitts said.
WAHS Junior Rachel Martinez plays the role of Audrey.
"I really want Western's drama department to keep going, and spread the joy around for future generations to come," Martinez said.
Weather permitting, "Little Shop of Horrors" will open with a benefit show Thursday night, with all proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity.
But if, like the show's giant man-eating plant, you're hungry for more, don't fret. You can see it all weekend, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.
