The Rocky Horror Show (Bristol)

Since its beginnings in 1973, The Rocky Horror Show has become a cult musical to have graced not only British, but worldwide stages. Richard O’Brien’s classic has been performed in over 20 countries and translated into more than 10 languages.

This year, the story of sexual tension and exhilarating dance routines celebrates its 40th anniversary with style. This fresh new production boasts direction from Christopher Luscombe and the expertise lent to this show is evident with its seamless use of the crude filling the innuendo-laden script.

From the whimsical humour of “Dammit Janet” to the floor-filling dance moves of “The Time-Warp”, there in’t a lyric the audience don’t at least attempt to sing along to.

Telling the story of dorky Brad and his perfectly preppy fiancée Janet, and their chance meeting with the sexually driven Dr Frank’n’Furter, Rocky Horror is an adventure you’ll never forget.

The cast of the Bristol run includes Ben Forster (ITV’s Superstar) as Brad, the powerful and appropriately buff Rhydian (The X Factor) as Rocky and the unforgettable and unquestionably excellent Oliver Thornton as Frank’n’Furter, with Rachel Grundy as Janet.

The set does what it is intended for and somehow its sparseness adds to the charm of the quirky musical.

Whilst the choreography is excellent, the dancing is not always up to scratch and there is a lack of energy from a handful of characters. That said, the band are sublime, effortlessly playing a range of different genres, from the rock n roll, “Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul” to Frank’s epic floorshow finale, “I’m Going Home”. The audience are so up for a party in the upbeat numbers, that it is likely that no one really notices the minor lull in on-stage verve.

As expected, the show is a fun-packed frolic, bursting with energy and some of the most outrageous outfits ever to be seen on stage. The spectacular mix of horror, sci-fi, comedy and even tragedy, is delivered with panache.

– Hannah Sweetnam