Review: Rocky Horror Show at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham

★★★★★

Don the feathers, glitter, corsets and suspenders, and give yourself over to absolute pleasure because the Rocky Horror Show has arrived at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre. Starring Lauren Chia as Janet, Connor Carson as Brad, Job Grueter as Riff Raff, Natasha Hoeberigs as Magenta and the Usherette, Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli as Columbia, and Adam Strong as Frank-N-Furter, this latest touring production of Richard O-Brien’s 1973 Rock ‘n’ Roll musical proves once again why is it a timeless camp classic. So, don’t dream it, see it!

For those unfamiliar with the story of this cult classic; newly-engaged sweethearts, Brad and Janet, get caught in a storm with a flat tire which leads them to the mansion of the lustful and enigmatic, Dr. Frank-N-Furter. In this house of wild and creepy characters, their innocence is soon lost at the hands of Frank, and his ‘creature’, a muscular man named ‘Rocky’.

There isn’t much you can say about a plot that is as frenzied, strange and non-sensical as Rocky Horror’s, especially when you’ve seen it play out many times before. For those who come out to see the show time and time again, the plot is no-doubt of less importance than the musical and dance numbers, the raunchy comedy, and the audience interaction that ensues. For audience members who are new to the show, the advice is to simply lean in to the fever dream, and enjoy the unique experience of this show that is a parody tribute to science fiction and horror B-movies of the past.

A most notable stand-out in this production of the musical is Jackie Clune’s Narrator, which stays true enough to the original script for the well-versed audience cues but also adds a modern injection of life with references to politics and contemporary culture. Clune is clever, sharp and quick with her audience interactions, playing perfectly with the ‘back and forth’ nature of this show.

The rest of the cast, play these odd characters very well, presenting some powerful vocals, and balancing the fine line between putting their own stamp on the role and staying true to characters that are so well known to their audience already. Strong’s Frank-N-Furter in particular stands up solidly against Tim Curry’s film depiction.

The costumes too (Sue Blane), while showcasing the designer’s own glittering flare, are still undeniably recognisable both on stage, and of course, in the audience, who are, as always, encouraged to dress up if they wish too.

Don't leave yourself in antici...pation of this production, Richard O'Brien's Rocky Horror Show runs at The Alexandra Theatre until 22nd March; best available performances: Tuesday 18th – Thursday 20th March, 7.30pm & Friday 21st March, 5.30pm. The tour will also be stopping at Stoke-on-Trent's Regent Theatre, Norwich Theatre Royal, Nottingham Theatre Royal, and Coventry's Belgrade Theatre.

This review was written following a press invite to the production.

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