Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Dammit, Janet, look at all the costumes!
A visit to the world’s biggest rock ‘n’ roll musical is certainly not for shy and retiring types.
Because audience participation in the outrageous Rocky Horror Show is all but obligatory.
And there was no shortage of shocking costumes and antics when the musical took to the stage at the Marlowe Theatre this week.
Among the dedicated fans of the show were also “virgins”, as first timers are known, including University of Kent theatre group member Toni Tamblyn, who was on a group social outing.
She said: “I thought it would be quite outrageous but wasn’t quite expecting the atmosphere, which was insane.
“It was all about the audience and participation and the theatre was absolutely electric.”
The show was created by actor Richard O’brien and premiered in 1973 at London’s Royal Court.
Conceived as a tribute to science fiction B movies of the 1940s and 50s, it tells the story of a young couple on their way to visit their old college tutor.
When their tyre blows out, they are forced to seek refuge in the home of transvestite scientist Frank N Furter, who introduces them to his latest experiment – Rocky, a physically perfect artificial man, created to satisfy Frank’s lust . Toni, who is about to start a new job as a PA at the King’s School, added: “My friend and I dressed up as one of the characters, Magneta. Most people were in costume and I think those who didn’t probably felt a bit silly.
“I love musicals and I have to say it was the best I have ever seen. I would definitely go again.”
The show ran continuously for a total of almost 3,000 performances in the West End until 1980.
The current touring production is directed by ex-royal Shakespeare Company actor turned director Christopher Luscombe.
It continues its run at the Marlowe until Saturday.
Turn over for a review of the show