This cult musical should need no introduction, unless like me you’ve never in your 40ish years actually seen the show. Like most people I’m acquainted and on a first knees name basis with the Time Warp and most of the hit songs from the show but that was pretty much as far as my Rocky Horror Journey extended.
Having just attended opening night here in Perth as the show celebrates their 40th year, I’ve well and truly lost my Rocky Horror virginity and gone all the way with this camp and colourful production. What a way to go and in some rather decorative company as well, with a huge part of the audience dressing the part and literally pelvic thrusting dancing along.
Craig McLachlan is larger than life as Dr Frank N Furter and I couldn’t imagine losing my Rocky Horror Show virginity to anyone else. Although as it really was my first time, so to speak, I’m not able to compare the shows or actors that have gone before over the last 40 years but oh how I wish I could go back. I’ve well and truly been bitten by the Rocky Horror bug and like everyone before me and I’m sure after me, I’m left wanting more, more, more. Oh Craig, just a little bit more……
This isn’t Craig’s first time donning the fishnet stockings and stilettos for the Rocky Horror Show, he actually jumped head first out of Ramsay Street and into the same roll. The only way to exit Ramsay Street and brush off his soapy good guy image, I’m told. It obviously worked.
What a transformation?! You could be excused for doing a double take and asking, “Henry are you still in there somewhere?” Which is a good thing as far as the rock n roll extravaganza that is the Rocky Horror Show goes. Of course, Craig’s career spans far and wide with many stage, television and musical notches now under his suspender belt, including his latest venture on television as Dr Blake in the Dr Blake Mysteries on ABC1.
As much as Craig really does own the Rocky Horror stage and the audience, I was impressed with all of the cast. It was hard to believe it was just a small cast of I believe only 13. According to regular Rocky Horror Show audience members, Kristian Lavercombe nailed his role as Riff Raff and Erika Heynatz makes a rather impressive Magenta.
For me local actor, Nicholas Christo impresses in his roles of Eddie and Dr Scott with Ashlea Pyke literally dazzling as Columbia. Vocalist wise Tim Maddren who plays Brad hit all the right notes and was married well with Christie Whelan Browne playing Janet. Brendan Irving’s Rocky rock hard abs and leopard print attire may have briefly distracted me (& possibly every other female in attendance) from his true musical talents.
The Rocky Horror Show is now playing in Perth before it continues on its national journey. A Worth Casing timeless classic that will continue to have audiences on their feet in anticipation and heading back for more.
Are you a fan of the Rocky Horror Show? Who is your favourite character?
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