Review: The Rocky Horror Show

From the moment you enter the theatre, it’s clear this isn’t going to be a typical night at the theatre. The audience participation is unlike anything you’ll experience at most productions. Whether you’re a seasoned Rocky Horror fan shouting back at the cast or a first-timer wondering what on earth is going on, it’s difficult not to get swept up in the atmosphere.Some of the biggest laughs of the night come from the interaction between the audience and performers, meaning no two performances are ever quite the same. On this particular night, one of the loudest laughs came courtesy of an audience member shouting out ‘Prince Andrew’ at an opportune moment while the Narrator was speaking. Even the cast appeared to appreciate that one.

The cast bring fantastic energy throughout, delivering the show’s iconic songs with confidence and charisma. From Dammit Janet and Sweet Transvestite through to the inevitable Time Warp, there are plenty of familiar numbers for the audience to sing, dance and clap along to. Combined with the outrageous characters and infectious sense of fun, it creates an evening that is equal parts musical, comedy and celebration.

Stephen Webb is simply genius as Frank-N-Furter. He completely embraces the outrageousness of the character, commanding the stage whenever he appears. Some of his expressions, knowing glances and perfectly timed winks to the audience are enough to generate laughs without him saying a word. Mirgan Jackson takes on the role of Rocky and, let me tell you, he certainly gets this reviewer’s heart racing while wearing very little for the majority of the show. Although Rocky himself is surprisingly thinly characterised considering his name is in the title, there are certainly no complaints about the commitment to the dance numbers and costume!

For the LGBTQ+ community, The Rocky Horror Show has always represented more than simply entertainment. When it first appeared in the 1970s, its unapologetic celebration of sexuality, gender expression and people living outside conventional expectations was provocative and groundbreaking. More than 50 years later, its message of self-expression, individuality and embracing who you are continues to resonate.

And make no mistake, The Rocky Horror Show is absolutely bonkers. Some people out there simply won’t get it – and this reviewer will admit to occasionally being among them. The story is undeniably thin and many of the characters and their motivations barely scratch beneath the surface. Those looking for an intricate plot or deeply developed characters are unlikely to find them here.

But perhaps judging Rocky Horror purely on its story misses part of the point. This is a show built around spectacle, music, audience participation and the sheer joy of embracing its own ridiculousness.

Dan Carter for Canal St Media