Rocky Horror Show – Opera House, Blackpool

I spent my evening at Blackpool Winter Gardens, as a Rocky Horror Show virgin, I cannot believe the level of commitment of some of the costuming from the audience members, one guy was literally in gold boxing shorts and a wig and heels. I have heard before of the active audience participation during this production, in fact one of the reasons why this musical is so popular is due to said participation, but it is something that needs to be seen to be believed. Another reason is the Musical score, with catchy tune such as ‘The Time Warp’ and ‘Sweet Transvestite’ which will leave you humming on your way out of the theatre.

Rocky Horror also a movie from 1975 has been a cult classic for many years. With the music lyrics and book by Richard O’Brien, this melodramatic, twee, tongue in cheek production, has been touring the theatres since 1973, last year celebrating its 50th year.

The coveted role of Franken Furter made famous by Tim Curry, was tonight taken on by household name Jason Donovan, who started in the role in 2023.

There was one casting swap this evening with Hollie Nelson stepping in as Magenta, a Sterling job and I never would have known. I was surprised to see that she was not wearing a maid’s costume, for me that role and the little white accessories go hand-in-hand.

Other cast includes Lauren Chia as a sweet and innocent Janet alongside Connor Carson as Brad, who at times came across more handsome than geeky. The pair connected well together and delivered some great vocal moments.

Jaymee-Lee Zanoncelli as Colombia and a very athletic Morgan Jackson as Rocky.

The music was provided by live on stage semi visible band, led by musical director Josh Sood also on keys. A clever, colourful set, and creative lighting design by Nick Richings.

For me personally, the second half didn’t match up to the first, not taking away anything from the performance just my personal opinion that it was a bit of an anticlimax, I could feel the lack of energy from the audience in that the column response dropped out a little and the story seemed to drag. That being said it finished strong with the floor show and the reprise of ‘Time Warp.’ Which was the nice lift energy that we needed.

This show promises an evening of fun, laughter and utter madness, people were up on their feet dancing throughout.

On a positive note, the vocals were very clean, and the choreography was executed well.

The performance began at 8 pm had a short interval and finished around 10pm.

There is an age limit of 12+ and the second half in particular has some highly sexual content.

Reviewer: Rebecca Casey

Reviewed: 18th November 2024

North West End UK Rating: