Actor BEN STOTT takes the lead role of Seymour in the forthcoming production of Little Shop of Horrors which runs at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester.

What or who got you interested theatre? Did you take part in any productions at school?

I had amazing teachers at high school who got me into drama.

I think it was so appealing to me because they treated you like an individual and spoke tome like an adult. I was my most comfortable and happiest in drama classes.

Are or were anymembers of your immediate family involved in drama?

No, although my older sister got into it at school first and that was my first experience of drama, seeing her in school shows.

Although she never pursued it, she has the most beautiful singing voice.

Who is the most inspiring person you’ve worked with and why?

There are so many, but if I had to pick one I’d say Maxine Peake. She is an incredible actress and a joy to work with. She’s an incredibly generous person on and off stage and I admire so greatly the way she challenges herself constantly with interesting work.

What formal training have you done?

I went to drama school. I didn’t train in musical theatre – I was on a straight acting course at the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts. I graduated with a 1st Class BA (Hons) degree in 2007.

Which experience or role do you regard as the highlight of your career to date?

My first musical was Into the Woods at Regents Park Open Air Theatre. I played Jack.

It was a really special experience, with the most incredible cast. I got to work with some of the best performers in musical theatre, such as Jenna Russell, Hannah Waddingham and Michael Xavier, plus the man himself, Mr Stephen Sondheim.

The show went on to win the Olivier Award for Best Revival.

What has been your most embarrassing moment on stage?

I played Boq in Wicked in the West End and in Act Two, I was in one of the towers and I had to pull on a lion’s tail. The audience is only supposed to see the tail, but one night I pulled too hard and the whole thing came out. The rest of the cast were in bits laughing as I tried to bundle it away.

Which actor do you most admire and why?

Meryl Streep – she can do no wrong. Everything the woman does is incredible. She may be the greatest film actress ever.

What role would youmost like to play and why?

My first love is Shakespeare. I change my mind all the time which is my favourite. I’d love to one day get a go at playing Mercutio, Richard II, Angelo, Benedick…the list is endless.

Any useful tips to pass on to other actors?

I think the most important thing is to just listen to your scene partner and be truly present in the moment.

Ben Stott takes the lead role of Seymour in the forthcoming production of Little Shop of Horrors which runs at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester, from May 27 to June 13. For tickets, call the box office on 01206 573948.