The Rocky Horror Show

It is remarkable to think that it has been 50 years since the debut production of The Rocky Horror Show on West End in 1973. With the success of the 1975 film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the stage show has been in continuous production ever since. Milk Bar was lucky enough to be invited to the opening night of Melbourne’s new run on May 24th.

Australia’s recent re-vamp of the cult classic is much of what you’d expect. Hilarious gags, delicious campiness and boisterous musical numbers. What makes this production so enjoyable is the undeniable talent of both Jason Donovan and his small ensemble cast of local talent. Donovan’s Frank N Furter is an equal blend of comedy and horror, and easily reaches what feels like the unattainable heights of Tim Curry’s infamous version of the role. He returns to the role after originally donning the corset and fishnets in the UK 25th anniversary special many years ago. And like a queen blowing the dust off her heels, he drops a hip and slips back in with ease.

While Donovan’s presence is electric and scene-stealing, the actors around him clearly refuse to be outshone by his glamorous light. Ethan Jones and Deirdre Khoo are a pure, naive delight as Brad and (damn it) Janet, and Khoo’s vocals soar above her counterparts. Henry Rollo as Riff Raff is wonderfully fun, and Darcey Eagle as Columbia and Loredo Malcolm as Rocky equally bring the charm and crazy to an intimate sized cast that deliver a bing bang.

National treasure and Spicks and Specks icon Myf Warhurst narrates, and the uproar of her first step out on stage almost echoed that of Donovan’s in the encore. While some ‘heckles’ from the audience may have been strategically staged for a good laugh, they do land for the most part.

Director Christopher Luscombe has revitalised the classic in such a fresh way that even the most stoic of audience members were up on their feet by the end of the night. And what is better than one encore of ‘Time Warp’ than two or three? There wasn’t a single complaint walking out of the perfectly intimate Athenaeum Theatre. The show runs until July 23rd so don’t miss this one!

The Rocky Horror Show
Runs until July 23rd
Athenaeum Theatre – 188 Collins St, Melbourne
Jason Donovan’s run ends on July 9th. David Bedella will play the role of Frank N Furter from July 12th-23rd.