Let’s do the Time Warp again! The Rocky Horror Show is back, and so are the fishnets, lab coats and stilettos, as Grand Opera House York welcomes the return of Richard O’Brien’s cult classic.
‘I would like, if I may… to take you… on a strange journey…’ ‘You may!’ roars the enthusiastic audience, delighted to welcome back this iconic musical.
There really is no journey quite like a visit to the Frankenstein Place; but when newly engaged Brad and Janet find themselves stranded with a flat tire, they stumble into an outrageous, otherworldly adventure that has captivated audiences for more than 50 years.
From the moment the curtain rises and the castle doors swing open, the show grabs hold and never lets go. Nathan M. Wright’s sharp choreography, Sue Blane’s instantly recognisable costumes and Christopher Luscombe’s assured direction combine to deliver an evening of gloriously camp, unapologetic entertainment.
For regular visitors such as myself, it’s always exciting when a familiar production finds a new way to surprise you, and this year’s band, led by musical director Adam Smith, did exactly that. The score felt more electric than ever, filling every corner of the auditorium with power and precision while breathing fresh life into each iconic number.
And it wasn’t just the music reaching new heights, so did our Frank-N-Furter, the stupendous Stephen Webb… and that’s not just because of the heels. Webb commands the stage with confidence, agility and irresistible charisma. Equal parts provocative and playful, his portrayal is full of heart, theatrical flair and delicious unpredictability. His performance of ‘Sweet Transvestite’ alone is worth the ticket price, with the rapturous standing ovation at curtain call confirming exactly what everyone in the audience already knew.
The strength of the company doesn’t stop there. Despite a mid-show stop-and-swap, Bethany Amber Perrins stepped seamlessly into the role of Columbia, bringing renewed energy and infectious enthusiasm. Meanwhile, James Bisp and Haley Flaherty charmed as the wonderfully naive Brad and Janet, blossoming throughout the evening as their chemistry grew despite their increasingly bizarre circumstances.
One of the production’s greatest pleasures is the ever-changing role of the Narrator, a quick-witted ringmaster who thrives on breaking the fourth wall; Jackie Clune proved an inspired choice. Her razor-sharp political gags, perfectly timed comebacks and celebration of queer joy ensured every audience interjection was met with warmth, wit and impeccable comic timing. The audience adored her, our trusty guide to the other side.
And what would Rocky Horror be without its audience? Dressed, obsessed and ready to be impressed, they are as much a part of the show as the cast themselves. Whether dancing through the ‘Time Warp’, delivering the infamous unofficial script of callbacks or cheering every familiar moment – they transform each performance into a unique shared experience. Few productions embrace audience participation quite like Rocky Horror, and it simply wouldn’t be the same without it.
Whilst the set remains reassuringly familiar, because, let’s face it, why fix what ain’t broken?, the technical elements felt slicker than ever. Aside from a couple of early microphone hiccups, Nick Richings’ lighting design and Gareth Owen’s sound design elevated every musical moment, making the production feel bigger, bolder and more vibrant than ever.
Every time this tour rolls back into York, it sells with ease, prompting the same question: just how timeless can one show be? If this production proves anything, it’s that The Rocky Horror Show is still strutting confidently, showing absolutely no signs of slowing down.
Don’t dream it… be it. Book your tickets, throw on the fishnets if you dare, and prepare for a night of outrageous, unforgettable fun.
The Rocky Horror Show is at the Grand Opera House York until Saturday 25 July. Tickets start from £16.64 and are available here.
