The Rocky Horror Show is back
Click here if you liked this article 8 
Date Reviewed: 11/02/2024
The Rocky Horror Show is back, and it is like déjà vu all over again! Last year, in May, this outrageous and outrageously fabulous production took the stage at the Atheneum Theatre in Melbourne. Now, it is making a triumphant return, ready to rock the house and bring the same electrifying energy to the audience. It is like reliving the fun all over again but with an extra sprinkle of excitement knowing what’s in store.
The Rocky Horror Show has a unique magnetism that draws a diverse, creative crowd such as those who appreciate campy humour, scandalous characters, people who consider themselves free spirits, lovers of all things eccentric, and those who simply want to have fun and see an uncommon production with rebellious, grungy rock pop vibes with edgy lyrics. It is a place where individuality is celebrated, and everyone can come together to embrace the joy of self-expression.
The story, in a nutshell goes like this: Brad (Blake Bowden) and Janet (Deirdre Khoo) who just got engaged found themselves in some trouble when their car broke down during a wild storm. Desperate for shelter, they stumbled upon a peculiar castle nearby. However, this castle was home to the unconventional and quite mad scientist, Dr Frank N. Furter portrayed by Jason Donovan. What makes this character outstanding is how comfortable Jason is in his own skin playing this role: confident and an unabashed transvestite, exuding charisma, flamboyance and embracing his uniqueness without any hesitation.
This was a particularly special night because Dr. Frank was bringing his ultimate creation to life: a super buff and handsome hunk named Rocky (Daniel Erbacher). Brad and Janet, these conservative and innocent characters, found themselves as unintended guests in Dr. Frank's wild world which was where most of the fun took place!
When the couple were invited in, they met the castle’s bizarre inhabitants like the eerie and mysterious handyman, Riff Raff played by Henry Rollo. Henry adds intrigue to the show, always lurking around in the shadows, creepy, pale and deathly as a ghost. And then there's Magenta, played by Stellar Perry. She's sassy, mischievous, and magnetic, with a captivating presence that draws you in. Her behaviour and attitude on stage make it impossible to take your eyes off her. The other main character, Columbia, played by Dacey Eagle, is energetic and bubbly. She is the entertainer who sparkles and tap-dances around in the castle, and she is mad about Dr. Frank! Another main character is Dr Scott, is played by Ellis Dolan. This is a wheelchair-bound scientist who enters the picture as a rival to Dr. Frank. He brings an element of mystery and intrigue to the story. Dr. Scott's role is to uncover the truth behind Dr. Frank's experiments and to seek justice.
Initially, Brad and Janet were shocked and wanted to escape, but, as the story unfolds, they get swept up in the wild and seductive world of Dr. Frank. Throughout the show, they go through a complete change in their attitudes, beliefs, and even appearances. They become more open-minded, adventurous, and willing to embrace their desires. They evolve and break free from societal norms, ultimately becoming more liberated and comfortable with their own sexuality. Blake and Deirdre have an exciting dynamic between them throughout the performance and their transformation is a key part of the Rocky Horror experience.
Now, it is practically tradition to shout out and interact with the performers, and tonight’s audience did not hold back, throwing out all sorts of funny, naughty, and sometimes totally inappropriate comments. Some of the shout-outs fell flat like a pancake. However, the Narrator, performed by the charming Joel Creasey, did not miss a beat, he responded with quick-witted and clever comebacks. Joel is a perfect storyteller and quickly established a connection with the audience through his good sense of comedic timing, delivery of the narrative and by creating an immersive experience through his continual interaction with the audience, making the them feel like part of the show.
The set design in the Rocky Horror Show was on point. At the beginning, it was all light and innocent with a cartoon-like car and church. But when we got to the castle, things got dark and mysterious. Sometimes, the stage felt a bit cramped and it seems that the perhaps through using appropriate lighting the stage could be enhanced to create a sense of more space. At one point, when the couple were approaching the castle, the castle's phantoms added such a visual spectacle, bringing movement and chaos to the stage. Also, the live band makes a huge difference to a show like this where music is such a key component.
This production of the Rocky Horror Show, under the direction of Christopher Luscombe, is worth seeing if you want to be part of a unique, immersive theatrical experience. You can see the show at the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne until the 23rd of March this year.
Reviewed by Irena Begelfor