It’s not easy having a good time—even smiling makes my face ache, but the cast of the latest touring production of Richard O'Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show made it effortless.
Anyone who has experienced the cult show before absolutely understands what they’ve let themselves in for. It is, of course the ultimate cult musical—a risqué romp through the tale of Brad Majors (Connor Carson) and his fiancée Janet Weiss’s (Lauren Chia) encounter with some sinister goings-on at the home of the eccentric Frank-N-Furter. Adam Strong shines in the lead role, having recently taken over from pop legend Jason Donovan on this latest leg.
Like slipping into a familiar pair of... um, fishnet stockings?—the camp energy is absolutely there from the Usherette’s (Natasha Hoeberigs) opening note of "Science Fiction / Double Feature" with its sci-fi references to the captivating charm of Frank’s unforgettable entrance in "Sweet Transvestite". Is it possible to seduce an entire theatre? Well, Strong is up for the challenge.
And seemingly having the time of his life as the Narrator, Nathan Caton expertly breaks the fourth wall with the suave and absolutely filthy commentary that the show deserves. Particular mention must go to the man dressed in a full tiger suit in the front row who I assumed must be a cast plant because his audience participation was seamless. On checking: nope, he is just a (very) committed superfan who is following the tour to every venue.
Directed by Christopher Luscombe, the production stays true to the roots of the original stage show and is packed with all the humour and outrageous antics that you’d hope framed by set and lighting design that transport you to that otherworldly place which is as timeless as it is charming.
We were all on our feet for "The Time Warp"—with a second helping at the encore—but I can’t help wondering what happened to the lady we overheard in the foyer who, on observing some of the audience’s costumes, muttered, “do people have no shame?”. Well, as Frank himself would say, you’d better believe it, baby!
If you’ve never seen it live, this is your chance for an unforgettable night out. Suspenders and feather boas are, of course, entirely optional. The show is at Cheltenham until 22 February and moves on to Swindon and continues at multiple venues until June next year.