Rocky Horror Show (Birmingham)

The superstar cast of The Rocky Horror Show deliver the 40^th birthday in a perfect celebration, showing the score is still as fresh as ever with a legion of fans that adore Richard O’Brien’s masterpiece musical.

The immensely talented Oliver Thornton delivers an impeccable and stand-out performance as Frank-n-Furter. Playing the role more playful than before, the characterisation pays off and, whilst still remaining at the core of the show, his somewhat warm nature shines through, adding a welcome dimension to the energetic persona. Thornton’s incredible vocals are a delight, in particular during Sweet Transvestite and I’m Going Home his stage presence is mesmerising.

Brad (Ben Forster) and Janet (Roxanne Pallett) are a naïve couple that Forster and Pallett make their own in a sweet and vulnerable way, demonstrating such in their opener Damnit Janet. Leading to their character changes in Touch-a, Touch Me and Once In A While, their diverse voices and acting abilities shine through; an adorable pairing.

A surprise comes in the shape of the leopard-thong-wearing Rhydian who plays Rocky, albeit his stage time is limited and his lines are even sparser, so not a huge challenge but when he is on stage his lines are delivered with great comedy and his muscles are greeted with screams and whistles.

Even 40 years after its premiere, the show still manages to sell out theatres. A terrific five star production of a terrific five star musical, so dig out those fishnets and time warp down to The Alex as this show is not to be missed.

The Rocky Horror Show plays at the New Alexandra Theatre Birmingham through Saturday February 2.

- by Kieran Johnson