For 50 years, Richard O’Brien’s 'Rocky Horror Show' has had us jumping to the left, and sliding to the right, and as we brought our knees in
tight, in the ever wonderful Leeds Grand Theatre, there was a buzz in the air,
from the hundreds of excited patrons in all manner of costume. The band kicked
off, and away we went.
Madness has taken control.
'The Rocky
Horror Show' is a cult classic musical that follows the adventurous journey of
newly engaged couple Brad (Richard Meek) and Janet (Haley Flaherty). When their
car breaks down on a stormy night, they seek shelter at a mysterious castle,
inhabited by the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Stephen Webb), a self-proclaimed
"sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania." Brad and Janet
become entangled in Frank-N-Furter's unconventional experiments, they are
introduced to an array of bizarre characters, including his seductive creation,
Rocky Horror. As the night unfolds, Brad and Janet are exposed to a world of
sexual awakening and personal liberation, challenging their preconceived
notions of love and desire.
But you
already knew that.
Tonight, we
were treated to an outrageously talented cast. Reece Budin was our stand-in narrator,
and he had his hands full, navigating through the show, giving the members of
the audience who knew the cult script their moment, and also bantering back to
the onslaught of abuse flung his way throughout the show, taking the role in
his stride, even making a quip about ‘Usually this role is played by the who’s
who of show biz, but tonight you’ve got the – Who’s that?? Of Musical Theatre’
bravo sir, you were great. Also, our stand-in Rocky, Fionán O’Carroll, not only
did he absolutely nail the part, but having to stay in peak physical condition,
for the duration of the run as an understudy, is above and beyond the normal
requirements! Then our final stand-in was dance captain, Stefania Du Toit, who
played Columbia, but honestly, I don’t think anyone could have nailed this role
better, being an accomplished dancer meant that every move of Columbia's weird
being was exaggerated, accentuated, and delivered with a dollop of
eccentricity, making her weirder, wilder, and more enticing than you could imagine.
Bravo. Now to the principals, Riff-Raff
(Kristian Lavercombe) and Magenta (Suzie Mcadam) partnered to become a
formidable team, both working together in sync as siblings are known to do.
- shout out to Lavercombe, who has performed
TRHS over 2000 times, more than any other actor in the shows 50 year history!
The 3 leads
in this show were truly remarkable. I’ve watched a lot of theatre in my life
and never have I seen a more perfect casting, Meek’s Brad, handsome, yet
naïve; Flaherty’s Janet, beautifully sweet, angelic yet thirsty; and
then we come to Stephen Webb. Words cannot explain how scintillating Webb’s
performance was. He had the audience in the palm of his hand. It was astounding. I think I and the other audience members inside the packed
auditorium, could have watched him perform as Frank for hours.
Christopher
Luscombe's direction skilfully harnesses Richard O'Brien's impeccable writing,
effectively utilizing the diverse production elements. Although the set design
may not be overly elaborate, it fulfils its purpose admirably, particularly
enhanced by the lighting design by Nick Richings, which elevates the overall
experience, until a rogue laser hits you in the eye! The choreography in
"The Rocky Horror Show" is widely renowned, epitomised by its iconic
moments like the Time Warp. Nathan M Wright brings these performances to
vibrant life on stage, infusing them with beautiful and captivating movement.
For 50 years, 'The Rocky Horror Show' has captivated audiences worldwide, and its enduring
appeal becomes easy to get caught up in. This ultimate feel-good production
manages to create a party atmosphere that extends beyond the stage and envelops
the audience, even in the midst of murderous events. With its iconic songs and
legendary characters, brought to life by a truly remarkable cast, the show
effortlessly blends nostalgia for those familiar with its previous iterations
(be it the stage or movie version) while introducing fresh elements. Notably,
the genius portrayal of the Narrator adds a new dimension to the experience.
The timeless quality of 'The Rocky Horror Show' remains as thrilling today as it
was when it initially emerged, and here's to anticipating the next 50 years of
this extraordinary production.
Now be sure
to go see this tour, as it comes to a theatre near you. There will be tickets
available, but not for very much longer..
Reviewer - Simon Oliver
on - 27.6.23
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