`ROCKY HORROR SHOW'
Production opens to sold-out audiences, high praise
In its first show of the 2024 season, Willits Community Theatre is really bringing it, with the gem production of Richard O'brien's “Rocky Horror Show.”
This is the first-ever live production of the cult classic in Willits and judging by the audience praises after a recent soldout performance, the town has a vivacious, playful and suitably risqué version at its doorstep.
To his credit, Director Bhavvy Ducharme unleashes O'brien's bawdy and hilarious script, oft-times bordering on the outlandish, without it being unduly lewd.
From the moment actor Chuck Mordock flashes on stage in fishnets and corset, sneering as the lustful Frank-n-furter, the show feels a little shocking — but Mordock's consistent touches of empathy and emotion also usher in a celebration of living with great passion.
Haley Morse and Jeshua Holt are compassionate as the innocent couple caught up in the evil mansion. Jeff Shipp romps about as an impressive creation of the adonis Rocky, while the supporting cast does sweet justice to the accompanying gang of partiers.
Choreographed by Pearl Marril, the musical entertains through both intimate and large ensemble dance numbers. The sexy red and black lingerie costumes by long-time pro Kathy Vellis are an invitation to look without hiding your eyes. A multi-tiered set helps bring about the big feel of the show, while the live piano provided by Abigail Strock offers a rich full sound.
After the show, Marcia Kennedy of Willits said, “It's so funny and they're such good actors.”
Local Mendocino Spirits distillers Crispin Cain and his wife, Tamar Kaye, complimented the passion of the production. Cain said, “Fantastic. The acting and singing are solid. Their hearts were beating and their souls thrilling.” Kaye said, “It does my heart good to see this kind of passion for theatre in Willits. It's phenomenal, so much heart and love in the performances.”
Esther Siegel of Redwood
Valley felt impressed by the costumes, the set and “the phenomenal guy playing the main character. He's fantastic. He pulls it all together.”
“I thought it was amazing,” said Gabriel Siegel of Ukiah. “I felt like I was at a Broadway stage show.” His companion Valentina added, “I hadn't seen it before and it was so much fun.”
Former Broadway dance star Linda Posner of Willits offered perhaps the final word on the evening's frolic, lauding the choreography work of her daughter Pearl Marrill. “She's incredible, what she did helping the actors be so confident on stage.”
To judge by the standing ovation greeting the cast at the end — the audience widely appreciated the job well done. There were murmurs afterward in the crowded lobby that seeing the show a second time is a must.