Sunderland to host Rocky Horror Show

Cult musical The Rocky Horror Show has announced a new year-long UK tour, directed by Christopher Luscombe, opening in Brighton on 17 December 2012 before stopping off at the Sunderland Empire for a limited 1-week run from 18 – 23 February 2013.

The musical, which first appeared at the Royal Court in 1973, and was voted “favourite Royal Court Play” in the venue’s 50th anniversary year, has so far announced dates at 18 venues, with performances until mid-July. Further dates are also hinted at for what is billed as “a year-long UK National adventure”.

The Richard O’Brien musical tells the story of a group of college students whose broken-down car forces them into the house of Dr Frank’n’Furter, where they meet his meneagerie of sci-fi/horror send-up companions. It has a fiercely loyal following who regularly don fancy dress to attend performances and screenings of the 1975 film adaptation.

The musical, which includes hits such as “Science Fiction/Double Feature”, “Dammit Janet” and “The Time-Warp” has previously starred the likes of Russell Crowe, Tim Curry, Jerry Springer and Meatloaf. Casting for the tour has yet to be announced.

Tickets are on sale now.