If you want a fun night out, well I would absolutely recommend that you go to the theatre to see this legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical by Richard O’Brien.
The Rocky Horror Show invites you to take part in this spectacular and ‘cultish’ party, featuring the classics which are timeless such as Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet and of course the unforgettable show stopper The Time Warp. You will have no choice but to be out of your seat and pelvic-thrusting with the rest of the cast and audience.
Rated ages 12+, this show does contain scenes of an adult nature, and some of the audience participation (shouted ad-libs) are pretty graphic; and even after seeing this show a few times, it still catches me off guard! But, it all adds to the party experience and you soon find yourself waiting in anticipation for the next shouted reaction, which the cast feed on expect.
The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic and mad scientist Dr Frank’n’Furter, who happens to be a highly sexual transvestite. What then happens in his mansion is funny, crazy, sexy and stupid, but none the less is brilliant.
With a selection of weird and wonderful characters that live in the mansion, Brad and Janet are taken on a life changing journey, with the spectacular unveiling of Frank’n’Furter’s latest scientific creation, his man made monster ‘Rocky’, who is a perfectly bodied “muscle man with blonde hair and a tan”.
With music and book and lyrics written by O’Brien, the production is a comical tribute to the science fiction and horror B movies of the 1930’s to 60’s.
I do have to say, this is one of the best productions of this show that I have seen. The talent and energy of this cast is exceptional, and they certainly put 110% into every number.
The star of this show is always going to be Frank’n’Furter, and Stephen Webb doesn’t disappoint with his delivery of this iconic character. He is strong, manly, sassy and has an incredible voice. The way he commands your attention when he is on stage is pure class. Webb certainly brings Frank to life and at times makes you feel like you are at his own rock concert.
TV presenter and Strictly Come Dancing winner, Ore Oduba, steps out as Brad in this production. Oduba has been forging out a reputable musical theatre career since his strictly win and he does a fantastic job in this casting. Obviously a great dancer, combine that with a lovely voice and smart characterisation and he is the whole package, which he gives his all to throughout the show. Oduba holds his own with this performance and compliments the talents of Haley Flaherty who plays his fiancé Janet. Flaherty is clearly a very talented and seasoned all rounder who sings and dances with ease, and she plays Janet perfectly.
Keeping the whole story moving is the Narrator, and in this production Philip Franks is wonderful. His comedy timing is impeccable, and the rapport he builds with the audience is an art in itself.
The next three key characters are Columbia (Lauren Ingram), Riff Raff (Kristian Lavercombe) and Usherette/Magenta (Suzie McAdam). All three actors give outstanding performances which add to the magic of this show.
Making his professional touring debut (as an adult), Ben Westhead is playing the monster creation that is ‘Rocky’, and I have to say he is probably the best actor I have seen do this part. Visually (as you would expect) he is very well put together and a delight to behold stood there in nothing but his tight speedo’s, but he is also a great actor, singer and dancer. Westhead’s energy in this role is refreshing and he maintains this from his first unveiling.
I do have to say that the supporting cast members (known as Phantoms) are the glue to this production, each one of them has developed their own version of madness on stage, and they are equally integral to this plot. Slick choreography by Nathan Wright, each Phantom supports this story on it way with smooth scene changes and superb song and dance numbers.
This production was directed by Christopher Luscombe, set design was by Hugh Durrant, lighting by Nick Richings and costumes by Sue Blane. Visually this a truly colourful spectacle of a production, and you will be revelling in the craziness of this cult classic.
Currently touring the UK – Rocky Horror Show is playing the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 23rd January 2022.
Review by Glen Clancy
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/palace-theatre-manchester/
The Biz 