David Freeman Photo by David Freeman
“A rollicking good time for fans of the original film and novices alike,” says Lori Heiss...
OUR VERDICT
Fans of the Rocky Horror Picture show will not be disappointed with Richard O’Brien’s adaptation to the stage, which retains all the fun and quirkiness of the original complete with lots of opportunities for audience participation. With timing and staging that allows for this time-honoured tradition to continue with all the fun and frivolity it brings, the audience got into the spirit of things and played their part well. Indeed, you could spot the die-hard fans in the audience dressed as their favourite characters and dancing in the aisles to their favourite tunes including the Time Warp, and also hear them as they interjected with the witty retorts and catty asides the film’s audiences are well known for, including all the old standards and even some new, seemingly off-the-cuff ones.
The cast did well to respond to these, especially Dom Joly as the narrator who, in his stage debut, showcased his sharp wit, impeccable comedic timing and a game willingness to play along with the jokes even when they were at his expense. But novice viewers were also firmly in attendance, quickly falling under the spell of the alternative show’s giddy fun and cheeky storyline. By the finale, you could see a good number more up on their feet dancing along, in a testament to the inclusive nature of the show and its broad appeal.
A fantastic cast took on the roles of old favourites with skill and ease, paying tribute to the film’s familiar characters while managing to shine through with fresh, energetic and skilful performances – their voices more than up to the task of belting out the old favourites all the way through the show.
A standout performance by Stephen Webb as Frank N Furter ensured that the show kept energy and personality throughout, filling this iconic character’s (high-heeled) shoes with flair and gusto. Joanne Clifton and Ben Adams also shone as Brad and Janet, and the supporting cast including the eccentric Riff Raff (Kristian Lavercombe), Columbia (Miracle Change) and Magenta (Laura Harrison) gave their all to their roles.
The set was suitably opulent and decadent, with Frank N Furter’s mansion that serves as the setting for most of the show draped in red and gold hues, which, in a nod to the big screen origins of the show, was trimmed with an architectural replica of a celluloid strip of film. The important part that music plays in this cult classic was also paid heed as the live band was on the show with a raised platform visible through the strip of film on set, earning a standing ovation at the end of the show.
A fantastic tribute to a much-loved classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show lives up to its billing as a fun-filled, lively night out.
Venue: New Wimbledon Theatre, Wimbledon
Dates: Until Feb 16
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