Where do you even begin with a show that's so iconic, it almost transcends the genre? The current UK tour of The Rocky Horror Show once again justifies why this musical gained - and retains - cult status.
Since its first appearance at the Royal Court Theatre in 1973, Richard O’Brien’s creation has become the world’s favourite rock n’ roll musical. It's been performed worldwide - in over 30 countries, on every continent - and has been translated into more than 20 languages.
A humorous tribute to the science fiction and horror 'B' movies which rose to prominence between the 1940s and 1970s, the musical tells the story of a newly engaged couple getting caught in a storm and knocking on the door of a mad transvestite scientist. He's unveiling his new creation, a Frankenstein-style monster in the form of an artificially made, fully grown, physically perfect muscle man named 'Rocky Horror', complete "with blond hair and a tan".
From start to finish, Rocky Horror is an in your face, confident, well rehearsed phenomenon. Retaining much of the same set, props - and in some cases, cast - as previous tours, whether you've seen the film or this is your first time in the castle...I defy anybody to not become a convert.
Known as much for it's cosplay and audience interaction as its storyline, this show is definitely still one of the mainstays of the British theatre scene.
Hayley Flaherty takes to the stage as Janet, the initially timid girlfriend of Brad. Janet is a role that allowed Flaherty to flourish, with a confidence and reassurance that shone through from the first notes of the first song.
James Bisp takes on the role of Brad - and excels. With a strong voice, excellent comedy timing and perfect characterisation, it's evident Bisp is having the time of his life on stage; something which translates perfectly to the audience.
Special mention must also go to both Ryan Carter-Wilson and Jackie Clune as Riff Raff and our Narrator respectively. Carter-Wilson's performance is sublime, eliciting an impulsive response from the audience from the moment the moon flips round for his 'big' entrance! Clune is a master of the role of the Narrator, bringing a planned spontaneity to proceedings - whether she had time to reflect on the weeks news and throw in some local references or not, it felt off the cuff and enhanced her performance no end.
However, performance of the evening has to go to Stephen Webb as Frank 'N' Furter - the out and out star of the show, both in terms of storyline and stage presence.
Webb gives us a stunning, flamboyant and, at times, emotional performance as Frank, a role which is somewhat iconic. Webb adores the role, and the show, and that's evident from start to finish.
The Rocky Horror Show isn't for the faint hearted and it's always a risk for each cast when they take on the behemoth. But, if you're up for a laugh and ready to party, this cast are a rip-roaring success.
The Rocky Horror Show runs at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 11th July 2026. For more information, or to get your tickets, head to atgtickets.com/birmingham.
