Embracing Absolute Pleasure at The Rocky Horror Show in London
My friend and I had the pleasure of attending the seductive and hilarious Rocky Horror Show in London on Tuesday night, and from the moment the curtains rose, we were ‘shivering with antici…pation’ for what was to come.
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a cult classic receives a glamorous facelift, look no further than Jason Donovan’s return to his iconic role as Dr. Frank ‘n’ Furter after a 25-year hiatus. Donovan, who first embodied the role decades ago, didn’t just revive the character; he absolutely owned it.
His portrayal of the mad scientist was a delicious mix of mischief and seduction, showcasing why he was the perfect choice to lead this beloved production. Every seat in the audience was filled, with viewers dressed as the characters on stage, adding to the immersive experience.
A Stellar Cast
While Jason Donovan’s performance as Dr. Frank ‘n’ Furter was undoubtedly a highlight of the evening, he was not the only standout performer. BAFTA award-winning comedian Mawaan Rizwan brought his unique comedic flair to the role of The Narrator, delivering punchlines with impeccable timing and a cheeky charm that had the audience in stitches.
Rizwan’s interaction with the crowd was a highlight of the show, seamlessly blending into the rowdy, interactive atmosphere that fans of Rocky Horror cherish. The dynamic between the characters on stage and the audience created an electric environment that felt like a celebration of shared nostalgia and irreverent fun.
The rest of the cast also delivered stellar performances, with Laura Chia as Janet and Connor Carson as Brad providing the perfect foil to the outrageous antics happening around them. Edward Bullingham’s energetic dual role as Eddie and Dr. Scott, Job Greuter’s macabre Riff Raff, Natasha Hoebergis’ dazzling Usherette/Magenta, Morgan Jackson’s Rocky, and Jayme Lee Zanoncelli’s sparkling Columbia collectively made the production shine even brighter.
An Interactive Experience
One of the defining features of The Rocky Horror Show is the level of audience participation it encourages. Throughout the evening, theatregoers didn’t just watch the show; they became a part of it. Shouts of encouragement, playful heckles, and spontaneous dancing during ‘The Time Warp’ added to the lively atmosphere of the performance.
Some audience members came dressed as their favorite characters and brought their own props, enhancing the interactive experience. From fairy lights for songs like ‘Over at the Frankenstein Place’ to rose petals for ‘Rose Tint My World,’ the audience’s enthusiasm added an extra layer of fun to the show.
A Timeless Legacy
The standing ovation at the end of the show was not only a tribute to the stellar performances of the cast but also a testament to the enduring legacy of The Rocky Horror Show. In a delightful twist, Richard O’Brien, the mastermind behind the phenomenon, made a surprise appearance, which was met with rapturous applause and cheers from the audience.
Since its London debut on June 19, 1973, The Rocky Horror Show has continued to captivate audiences with its high-octane, joy-filled spectacle. This production expertly balances nostalgia with fresh, dynamic performances, making it a must-see for die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
In conclusion, The Rocky Horror Show in London is an unforgettable night of laughter, music, and absolute fun. As Frank-N-Furter himself famously said, “It’s not easy having a good time; even smiling makes my face ache.”
