Review: The Rocky Horror Show (Dominion Theatre)

Review by Izzy Tierney

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Since its original London production in 1973, The Rocky Horror Show has been non-stop. Not only has it inspired 3 films, but the stage show has also been performed in 30 countries (across 6 continents), translated into 20 different languages, and seen by over 30 million people across the globe. It's safe to say that the wild world of Dr Frank-N-Furter has more than earned its place as one of the most beloved musicals of all time, and I couldn't be more excited to finally experience it for myself.

Written entirely by Richard O’Brien, the musical follows Janet and Brad, a young, innocent couple who, due to a flat tire and a stormy night, end up at the castle of gender-defying scientist Dr Frank-N-Furter, who is currently in the middle of his latest mad experiment. Along with the audience, they soon learn that just one encounter with him is a life changing and unforgettable one.

My encounter with Dr Frank-N-Furter is at the Dominion Theatre, where Hugh Durrant’s set design makes good use of the generous space, allowing the show to feel larger than life while maintaining the intimate feel crucial for its interactive nature. The choreography by Nathan M. Wright also achieves this, as despite the number of performers on stage, each character is always given room to shine and connect with the audience. I particularly enjoyed how well Nick Richings’ lighting complemented every element of the show, filling the theatre as though the Rocky Horror world was all around you.

Moving around the stage in perfect synchronicity, Lauren Chia and Connor Carson make a brilliant Janet and Brad. Their portrayal of a sweet, naive couple being debauched over the course of the night comes with fantastic vocals, gorgeous harmonies, and spot on comedic timing. A big highlight on the comedy front is Mawaan Rizwan as The Narrator, who brings plenty of charm, sass and fun to the role with his quick-witted (and often wonderfully sarcastic) interactions with the audience each time he steps foot on the stage.

A real standout performance comes from Job Greuter as Riff Raff. His excellent voice and talent as a dancer is immediately clear, but his ability to make the character simultaneously loveable and ominous is what drew me in. He plays the role of the loyal, if somewhat fed up, servant of Dr Frank-N-Furter with seamless contradictions. A submissive dominance; a kind ruthlessness; equal amounts of magnetism and awkwardness covering the intelligence bubbling under the surface. I found myself captivated by Greuter's acting choices, which made the final twist all the more rewarding.

Stepping into the fishnet stockings and heels once again, Jason Donovan returns as the iconic Dr Frank-N-Furter after 25 years, effortlessly easing back into the role. His charisma is palpable, his voice a perfect match for the sultry musical numbers, and the chemistry between him and the other performers feels natural and genuine.

Donovan's reprisal of Dr Frank-N-Furter is not the only thing that has aged well; The Rocky Horror Show as a whole still feels fresh and exciting. O’Brien's writing is still funny, Sue Blane's costumes are still glamorously camp, and the music still has people up on their feet, singing and dancing along. For 50 years this musical has been delighting audiences all over the world and its cult following is a true testament to the timelessness of the show. Fans are unwavering in their love and dedication, evident in the large number of audience members dressed in Rocky Horror costumes unanimously shouting out each interactive line with precision. It's an incredibly joyful atmosphere to be a part of, especially when it's clear that every member of the cast shares that same vibrant enthusiasm and love for the show.

My entire life I've heard great things about The Rocky Horror Show, leaving me to question whether it would live up to the expectation I had created over the years, yet I needn't have worried. What I witnessed was a thrilling otherworldly adventure of beautifully orchestrated chaos that I already want to go and see again. I highly doubt it will be long before I'm watching the film to soothe the post show blues!

I will never forget the pure magic of experiencing this show for the first time in all its immersive glory, and I can now say for certain that I really would love nothing more than to do the Time Warp again.

The Rocky Horror Show plays at the Dominion Theatre until September 20th

For tickets and information visit https://nederlander.co.uk/dominion/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/

Photos by David Freeman