There are two types of people in the world — those who have seen The Rocky Horror Show and those who haven’t. Until recently, I was in the latter group of people. A few weeks ago, while in Melbourne, I stopped in to see the show and caught up with a couple of the cast members for a quick chat about the 50th anniversary of the production.
Frank’n’Furter is being played by three-time Olivier Award-winning performer, David Bedella, who’s had a very storied career that includes performances alongside greats like Sir Anthony Hopkins in Alexander and Christian Bale in Christopher Nolan’s Batman Begins.
The Production
First opening in London in 1973, The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of Brad and his fiancée, Janet, two squeaky clean college kids who meet Dr Frank’n’Furter — an extra-terrestrial mad scientist from the galaxy of Transylvania where people really like to party. It’s an adventure they’ll never forget, with fun, frolics, frocks, and frivolity, bursting with timeless songs and outrageous outfits.
In the 50 years since it opened, the production has been seen by over 30 million people in more than 30 countries.
“I am thrilled to be returning to Australia after so many years and to return to a show that is forever linked to my heart! This Fiftieth Anniversary production promises to be the best yet and I’m gonna do my part to see that it is! I hope everyone will come along to help us celebrate a show that has undeniably become the greatest cult sensation musical theatre has ever seen and has meant so much to so many for Fifty years!” said David Bedella.
The Rocky Horror Show opened its curtains at Crown Threatre Perth yesterday and it’s a show you’ll definitely want to go and see.
What to expect
The Rocky Horror Show is an enjoyable burst of entertainment across two 45-minute sets with a short intermission.
David Bedella described it as “A fun story. It’s playful. The main thing I would say that I look forward to you experiencing is the music.”
“As soon as the audience hears the intro to each song, they go, oh, I love this song, and then the next one comes up and it’s oh, God, I forgot this was in it. You can see and feel the enthusiasm in the crowd.”
“The dialogue is fun. The design is brilliant. The direction is great. I feel this is probably one of the best Rocky Horrors I’ve ever done. This cast is just incredible.”
Henry Rollo, who plays Riff Raff added “It’s a celebration of otherness, in a way, and it’s a celebration of self-expression and acceptance. I think it’s an incredibly silly and funny show that’s filled with many heartfelt moments and sentimental messages.”
Get ready to do the time warp again and book your tickets to see this production while it’s in Perth.
Tickets
The Rocky Horror Show is playing at Crown Theatre Perth from August 6th to August 26th. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster and start at $69.00.
