The cult classic ‘Rocky Horror’ sent Norwich into a time-warp last night with fishnets and sequins galore.
Richard O’Brien’s shockingly seductive show was outrageously fun and totally lived up to every expectation! If you don't know the story of the ‘Rocky Horror Show’ where have you been for the past 40 years?! For those who may not know the show, it follows Brad (Richard Meek) and Janet (Hayley Flaherty) - two recently engaged humans - as they are stranded at a mysterious castle due to a flat tyre. There they meet the transvestite doctor - Frank-N-Furter (Liam Tamne) and his creepy servants; Riff Raff (Kristian Lavercombe) ; his sister - Magenta (Kay Murphy) and the loveable tap dancer Columbia (Sophie Linder-Lee). Luckily (or unluckily) for Brad and Janet, they arrive for the Annual Transvestite Convention. Crazy antics follow as Rocky (Dominic Anderson) is brought to life!
The stage was a perfect ode to the science fiction films of the 60’s, with a role of film framing the stage. As the music is such a amazing feature of the show, it was great to be able to see the band throughout the performance. They were truly incredible. The simple set was a humorous and matched the tongue and cheeky humour amazingly, allowing easy transitions from each location.
Liam Tamne as Frank played the iconic transvestite fantastically. Although different to the famous performance by Tim Curry, it was still a hilarious and outstanding. However, he played the role rather femininely and to me I like the juxtaposition of the femininity of the clothes with the masculinity of the character. But that being said - the role is so individual it allows it to be performed however the actor interprets it! Also you can’t fault his comic timing and humour. The roles of Brad and Janet were executed perfectly, showing their journey of sexual awakening and the extra-terrestrial. ‘Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me’ was a personal favourite for me, showing a huge shift in character.
The amazing vocals of Kristian Lavercombe had the audience on their feet and doing the Time-Warp. Some of the notes he was hitting were truly incredible. Kay Murphy as Magenta was sensational playing the stern and sexual Transylvanian. Sophie Linder-Lee was phenomenal and fun (a shout out has to go to Columbia on the gas!). Rocky - the man made man - played by Dominic Anderson was great… Qwarrrrr… enough said.
Taking us on the journey, Steve Punt, was witty and quick as the narrator - encouraging the audience participation giving the show the “Rocky Horror” charm. The whole cast was just outstanding and perfect.
Overall, the whole production was so much fun, so crazy and totally did justice to the legacy of the ‘Rocky Horror Show’. A great night of wacky fun, to dress up in your fishnets and to ‘Rose Tint Your World’. A must see.
