“This is my favourite show so far,” Welsh singing star Rhydian Roberts tells Andy Howells as they discuss a new production of the 1950s Sci-Fi spoof Little Shop Of Horrors which comes to Cardiff’s New Theatre next week.

Rhydian, who first rose to fame on ITV’s The X Factor has balanced a successful recording career with a series of top musical theatre credits over the last decade includingGrease, We Will Rock You, The War of the Worlds, Jesus Christ Superstar and The Rocky Horror Show.

Little Shop Of Horrors however is Rhydian’s most challenging stage performance to date, as he plays six supporting character roles.

Foremost he is sadistic dentist Orin Scrivello but also takes on the roles of a woman, a businessman, a cowboy, a botanical expert and a tramp in the opening moments of the show. “I’m the very first character you see, but people don’t realise because I wear a beard and a hat,” says Rhydian. “It’s a very involved show for me, it’s got a really fantastic cast and Tara Wilkinson, one of the best directors in the West End is directing it. There’s hit after hit and a giant clam that eats people, it’s not normal, that’s for sure!”

Rhydian was a little unsure of his multi-role opportunity when it was first put to him but is now relishing his character roles as well as working alongside the musical’s cast and crew, “Stephanie Clift is awesome in the lead role, there’s an amazing live band and if you want a West End standard show on the road, this is it.”

Little Shop of Horrors is at the New Theatre from October 3 – 8. For ticket details visit www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk or call the Box Office on (029) 2087 8889.