Review: Rocky Horror Show

Pushing 40, Still Sweet

by Christian Baines

@XtianBaines

If you’ve made it to this website and I have to spend a paragraph explaining the plot of Rocky Horror, what the hell is wrong with you?

In 2012, The Rocky Horror Show finds itself pushing 40. It’s more institution than revolution these days, meaning any successful production needs to find whatever trace of sexual revolution remains – all without alienating an established fanbase. A slavish imitation of the definitive film is death. So is going the ‘party over performance’ route that plagues many amateur productions of the show. You’re not shadow-casting under a spray of water pistols and toast now, darling. Expectations are high and fans are rabid. As a wise man in heels once said (theatre superstition not withstanding), “Good luck… and don’t fuck it up!”

they do fuck with it in the best possible way

Lower Ossington Theatre’s Halloween production certainly does not ‘fuck it up.’ But they do fuck with it in the best possible way, bowing to all that has informed and evolved the show throughout its long history, finding a fun and faithful revolution within its original retro conceits. Even before the tale begins, audience members can enjoy highlights from virtually every film name-checked in Science Fiction/Double Feature, and many more. And if that’s not enough to make your inner B-movie geek go squee, come back early during intermission for some cheesy drive-in nostalgia. 

The show itself feels trashy, random and improvised, which is just fine since the same can be said of Richard O’Brien’s book and score. That’s half of the appeal, and in embracing it, director Seanna Kennedy finds an energy that cuts through Rocky Horror’s familiarity. No small thanks go to Adam Norrad’s refreshingly masculine Frank N Furter, who exudes a rocking charisma and sensuality the moment he steps on stage. During the musical numbers, his presence is dominating and unstoppable, without ever overshadowing his co-stars. He wavers a little between numbers, betraying a youthfulness that undermines some of the character’s power and menace, but any doubts are swept away by act two, when the story’s absurdities climax.

Rebecca Perry is a scene stealing Narrator, and while Andrew Ball packs the obligatory gym-toned body for Rocky, he also brings a great singing voice, killer good looks and a surprisingly multi-layered performance to a part that’s normally flatter than Ball’s abs. He imbues the character with the same ‘babe in the woods’ innocence that envelops Brad and Janet (which is as it should be), bringing a fresh, potent energy to Touch-a-Touch-a- (etc) Me, among other scenes. Mark Willett’s Riff Raff gets a little lost in the mix, finding the disgruntled servant’s anger and resting there for the entire performance. 

Even for those who ‘grow weary’ of O’Brien’s world, this is a Rocky Horror that truly does find its own set of jaws. Sure, it’s as messy as hell. Some sound and balance issues need to be addressed in particular. The audience gives up pretty quickly on the whole ‘singalong’ conceit and the production should probably do the same (Why would you want to drown out a cast this good, anyway?). But it finds the perfect balance between smart and smart-ass. Bringing a little of ‘theatre’ Rocky, and a little of ‘party’ Rocky, this production makes a great addition to your Halloween season.

By the way, callbacks are encouraged. So have your best ‘Asshole!’ and ‘Slut!’ ready for our squeaky clean heroes.

The Rocky Horror Show plays at the Lower Ossington Theatre until November 3.