REVIEW Richard O'Brien's Rocky Horror Show - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Photo credit - Richard Davenport

The world's favourite rock 'n' roll musical was welcomed back with open arms last night at Liverpool Empire Theatre. After 40 years of worldwide productions, Richard O'Brien's cult show exploded on the stage much to the delight of the opening night's audience on Tuesday 29th April. The legendary musical extravaganza is embarking on an extensive, thrilling UK tour and the Liverpool Empire audience clad in stockings, suspenders and all manner of bustiers and corsets were highly receptive to the stage performance.

From the opening number, the quality of performance was second to none and the customary level of crowd participation, engagement and heckling of the cast was hilarious and high-vibe. The cast did so well to keep their composure as the passionate audience shouted out adlibs. Beverley Callard played the narrator and was particularly composed amidst a barrage of crude jibes from the audience, Other stars of the show included the fabulous Duncan James who played the outlandish protagonist Frank N Furter, Joanne Clifton (Janet), Ben Adams (Brad) and Kristian Lavercombe as Riff Raff.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, the show was hilarious. Laura Harrison who plays the usherette welcomes us to the Rocky horror picture show. It was great to see so many audience members dressed up as some of the Principal characters and the energy within the room as the crowd got up on their feet and danced "The TimeWarp" was electrifying. If you want to witness a performance which embraces audience participation, Rocky Horror is the one.

Joanne Clifton plays Janet alongside Ben Adams who plays her fiance. The seeming squeaky-clean duo go on to meet Dr Frank 'n' Furter when their car breaks down. What ensues is a wild unforgettable adventure which is hilarious, crude and highly entertaining.

  

  

Duncan James was truly exceptional in his role as Frank 'n' Furter and delivered a stellar performance. He is the most engaging, highly convincing "Sweet transvestite from Transylvania" His energy, sass and gravitas were impressive. His vocals were exceptional as was his ability to create humour by his body language. James seized this role with both hands and performed within an inch of his life.

The interval takes place quite quickly, I'm sure to give the cast a break from the high-level energy of the performances in the first half of the musical. The second half continues with the same pace and high quality of acting and vocal delivery.

A sexy 5 shiny gold stars from me for this wonderful performance of Rocky Horror.

It's bold, it's brash, it's an absolute ball. Go and see it and get involved with the party.  Prepare to be "lost in time, lost in space and meaning" as you enjoy the ride that is the Rocky Horror Show. You are sure to leave feeling like a superhero and it will without doubt be the quickest and most entertaining 2 hours of your life. The show runs until Saturday 4th May and tickets can be bought here

Stunning, Stupendous, Suspenders and all!

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