Yvonne Paterson gives into the absolute pleasure of the classic rock musical.
The pearl necklace of musicals, The Rocky Horror Show struts into the Edinburgh Playhouse to mark its 50thanniversary—and a frisky, bold, energetic mark it makes.
Director Christopher Luscombe has a firm hand in this production, making it feel both original and familiar—it’s this familiarity that allows its audience to submit to the absolute pleasure and revel in not just the production but the expected unwritten audience participation that has evolved over the years. And with Philip Franks in the role as the Narrator, this production embraces it all the more. Frank is tantalising, rising to every quip from the audience with sharp wit and deliberating it back whilst also delivering grazing current political and social jokes as he tells the tale of the soon to be corrupted naive couple Janet and Brad, who only wanted to use the phone.
The talent in this production is without a doubt fabulous. Richard Meek and Haley Flaherty are a wonderful combination as Brad and Janet, both bringing a vibrant energy to the roles. Flaherty is frivolous in an endearing way and Meek excels in his role as the wannabe lionheart.
Stephen Webb commands the stage in the role as Frank-N-Furter, deliciously embracing the cocktail of desire, lust and sexual freedom of the role, knowing when to toy with the audience, just as much as his newfound playthings Brad and Janet, and gives a rollocking and unapologetic performance of ‘Sweet Transvestite’.
Another well-paired dynamic is Riff Raff (played by Kristian Layercombe) and Magenta (played by Suzie McAdam, who doubles as the Usherette), the manipulating brother and sister duo: they are brilliant and both have vocals that are astounding.
Darcy Finden’s Columbia is delightful, hitting some high-pitched notes and tapping some wonderful moves all whilst capturing the ditziness and tragicness of Frank-N Furter’s most dedicated groupie and once love interest. Joe Allen gives a cracking performance in both the roles as Eddie and Dr Scott, and Ben Westhead as Rocky gives a performance that can definitely be admired.
Every musical number in this production is fast-paced and full of fun. The choreography is tight and the vocals are just superb, making musical numbers such as ‘Time Warp’, ‘Hot Patootie (Bless my soul)’ and ‘Touch-a-Touch-a Touch-a Touch me’ a sheer delight.
It is with few morals and perseverance that The Rocky Horror Show has stood the test of time. So go: give in to ‘absolute pleasure’ and see it.
The Rocky Horror Show is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until March 18th, 2023 before continuing its UK tour.
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