Theatre Review: Rocky Horror Show
AD: This Press Night Review refers to the 2023 Touring Production of the Rocky Horror Show at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*
It seems odd to be pulling on fishnets on a Monday night. Yet a Press Night for the 50th Anniversary production of the Rocky Horror Show calls for a little more effort than usual. I swing by to pick up tonight’s theatre buddy Clare, hoping my car doesn’t break down on the way into Brum, and I have to stand at the side of the M6 looking like I’m touting for business. Or even worse, approach a spooky castle with a single light shining in the attic…
Since it’s 1973 West End debut, and the release of the iconic film in 1975, the stage show has toured regularly, creating a cult following with their own call outs to the script and a penchant for fancy dress. There are few shows where audience participation is actively encouraged (although the days of throwing rice, toast, playing cards and toilet roll are behind us. Thanks health and safety guidelines…). The cast leave long enough pauses for the audience response, adding to the comedy. But the show is inclusive, so even complete Rocky Horror virgins can enjoy the spectacle without knowing the appropriate heckles. The Brummie audience did not disappoint, with plenty of fishnets, corsets and lab coats on display. On a Monday night as well.
“It’s just a party Janet…”
Let’s face it, no-one comes to see Rocky Horror for the story. But for those that do like to follow a plot, it tells the story of a young squeaky clean couple, Brad (Richard Meek) and Janet (Hayley Flaherty), forced to request help from a mysterious castle when their car breaks down one dark and stormy night. The castle just happens to be owned by a charismatic alien transvestite, hellbent on sex and murder. Along the way, he throws a party, creates his very own muscle man, and turns on his own minions. It’s actually a surprisingly complex storyline, but let’s not dwell too much on the bizarre and highly implausible sci-fi elements
The script is faithful to Richard O’Brien’s original, although the Narrator is allowed to break from tradition, poking fun at the current state of affairs in UK politics. Philip Franks was an excellent Narrator, rising to the audience banter with aplomb. I did miss the Brummie touch provided by Alison Hammond the last time we saw this at The Alex. I guess she’s moved onto bigger things now…
The show pushes plenty of boundaries in terms of gender and sexuality, and it’s not one to bring your kids to. Or your granny. It’s brash and it’s rude. Definitely different from last week’s twee Steel Magnolias.
“In just seven days, I can make you a man”
Steven Webb is an outrageously masterful Dr Frank-n-Furter. The Tim Curry portrayal is iconic, but Webb gives us his own spin on the character. He has the audience in the palm of his hands from the moment he sets a platformed foot on stage. He slips easily between masculine and feminine, and is completely mesmerising.
Richard Meek and Haley Flaherty are perfectly sugar sweet as Brad and Janet, and particularly sizzle when paired with Frank. Haley absolutely nails “Touch-A-Touch-A-Touch-Me” and Meek brings a nerdy charm to Brad. Darcy Finden is a captivating and energetic Columbia, and Suzy McAdam a spellbinding Magenta/Usherette. And Kristian Lavercombe has been playing Riff Raff on stage for so long (over 2000 appearances) that his name is almost as synonymous with the part as Richard O’Brien himself. The whole cast look like they’re having a ball
“It’s just a jump to the left…”
The songs are iconic and embedded in modern culture. Naturally the “Timewarp” is a crowd-pleaser and “Sweet Transvestite” a showstopping introduction to Dr Frank-n-Furter. Joe Allen’s time as Eddie may be short but his version of “Hot Patootie” is another fan favourite. The live band are suspended above the stage, and ensure that the party continues with each and every song.
Director Chris Luscombe has a long-standing association with the show, and his passion for it shows in this production. The simple, cartoonish set, designed by Hugh Darrent, is inspired by 50’s B-movies and the scene transitions are seamless. Fabulous lighting (Nick Richings) adds atmosphere; towards the end the set becomes visually striking, a perfect backdrop to the final act. The sound crew do a great job of making sure that the dialogue can be heard, even in the rowdier moments of the show. And naturally the costumes – however skimpy – are delightful.
Time may be fleeting, but for 50 years old, Rocky Horror is looking pretty damn fresh. It’s absurd, it’s outlandish, it’s gloriously bonkers. And it definitely does not take itself seriously in the slightest. Like Brad and Janet, it’s a night you’ll never forget.
The Rocky Horror Show is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 1st April 2023. Purchase your tickets here. The UK Tour continues until April 2023; for a full list of dates, visit the Rocky Horror Show official website.
Photo Credits: David Freeman (2021 tour cast)
