Wilma’s Rating [rating=5]
The first time I saw The Rocky Horror Show (many years ago) I was dressed up to the nines in fishnets and suspenders (a lovely thought I know). Last night however, I decided to leave that to the younger generation and go in my normal attire! Wimbledon didn’t disappoint (even for a Monday night) and there was more flesh showing in the crowd that you could ever dream of seeing!
Writer and actor Richard O’Brien was at press night and took to the stage at the end of the show to give everyone a rendition of The Time Warp. A lovely addition to the show.
The Rocky Horror Show is unlike anything you will ever see at the theatre. The film has a cult following of fans who love to get involved. Throughout the show audience members shout out inuendos and subtext that the actors are well prepared for. When it starts raining, the audience put up their umbrellas, when they talk about waving flags, people start waving flags… you get the idea! It is very much a show for audience partici-pation but if you don’t want to join in then you can just have fun watching it.
The story is of Brad and Janet. Two innocent youngsters who’s car breaks down one night in the middle of no where. They walk to the nearest castle and ask to use the phone. Once inside, the evening takes a very strange turn of events that will change their lives, forever.
The star of the show is undoubtedly Oliver Thornton who takes on the role of Frank ‘n’ Furter (the fishnet wearing transvestite, who manages to talk anyone, and everyone into bed). Oliver (mostly recently seen playing the camp Felicia in Priscilla Queen of the Desert) seemed at home in the role and embodied his character perfectly.
Jesus Christ Superstar winner Ben Forster was unrecognisable as the clean cut, geeky Brad (nothing like his previous role) although I was secretly hoping to hear the note from Gethsemane that he has become famous for!
The biggest surprise was previous X Factor contestant Rhydian. Playing the man made hunk Rocky. His performance was lovely. His parading around in the tiniest pair of leopard print briefs for the whole show was just a bonus. If I were creating the perfect man I don’t think I would give him quite as much fake tan but let’s be honest, no one was looking at that!
I can’t find anything to fault this show on and so 5 stars is a must! A strong cast, great songs and an audience full of fun and energy that leaves you feeling charged and young at heart!
The Rocky Horror Show plays at The New Wimbledon Theatre until Saturday. For other tour dates visit www.atgtickets.com
Watch out for my video interview with Oliver Thornton, coming soon to www.westendwilma.com.
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