Sadistic dentists, rip-roaring tunes and a giant man-eating plant kept children on the edge of their seats during a college’s first ever play.

Pupils from primary schools across Borehamwood were granted a preview of Elstree UTC’s production of The Little Shop of Horrors.

The story of a giant man-eating plant that takes over the world kept the audience of 160 children laughing, clapping and wanting more.

The college in Studio Way specialises in vocational education for film, television and the creative arts and the performance showcased all the skills the students had learned in their first 19 weeks.

Principal Moira Green said: “As well as dancing, singing and acting, the students were involved in every single aspect of the production, from designing the set, to doing makeup and hair, to creating the costumes, performing the music to doing sound and lighting. 

“It’s a really amazing show that sounds great and looks fantastic. Our audiences are in for a treat.”

Georgina Feldman, who plays the hapless Audrey, said she had greatly enjoyed the ten weeks of rehearsals.

She said: "Audrey is a very different character from me, blonde and stupid and always suffering bad things, it's been great playing her and I'm looking forward to performing in front of an audience."

Parents and members of the public will be able to see the show tonight and tomorrow from 7.30pm.

For tickets, visit www.elstreeutc.co.uk