The preshow publicity tells us to expect a night of ‘fun, frolics and frivolity’. Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show at the Sunderland Empire tonight was certainly that and more. This nostalgic show, which first opened in London in 1973, sends us back with a bang to 1950’s America.
The cult following of this show was very much in evidence tonight, with many audience members dressed in basques, hats, fishnet tights and colourful feather boas, thus creating a party atmosphere prior to curtain up. There was much anticipation, as they gathered to take their seats, that this was going to be a night to remember. Well, it was certainly that and more.
The story is a simple one but packs a punch in its retelling. We find two young college students, who are on their way to meet their former professor, when their car breaks down on a dark, stormy night in the middle of nowhere. They try to find help and stumble upon a spooky castle belonging to Dr Frank-N-Furter. The rest of the night becomes one that they and the audience will never forget.
The psychedelic front curtain and preshow rendition of the iconic Time Warp sets the scene as an usherette (Laura Bird) appears front curtain and we are off on the ride of a life time. Bird’s delivery of Science Fiction/Double Feature is a joy.
Curtain up and we are on the road with Janet (Haley Flaherty) and Brad (James Bisp) as their car breaks down. The set (Hugh Durrant) portrays a cartoon cut out of a car. These clever cut outs are seen throughout the show, the castle being another and an upright bed, where an iconic scene takes place. Bisp’s portrayal of a high school nerd with heavy framed spectacles gives off a Buddy Holly vibe, whilst Flaherty’s character is reminiscent of Sandy in Grease. Both are two innocents abroad who are about to have the night of their life as they encounter the charismatic Dr Frank (Stephen Webb) and his entourage.
The show is held together masterfully by the Narrator (Jackie Clune). This is a 5 star performance by Clune as she manages to move the story along and deal with the raucous, very vocal audience, at the same time. She handles the audience well, as many have obviously seen this show many times and know when to throw an appropriate punch line in. Her life and skill as a stand-up comedian shows her professionalism. She remains as cool as a cumber throughout. A fantastic performance.
The entrance of Dr Frank in basque and fishnet stockings contrasts well with the two demure college students who are thrown into his crazy world in the castle. Webb is a magnetic presence on stage and clearly relishes the role. He also shows a vulnerable side with his rendition of I’m Going Home.
We then meet Dr Frank’s protege, Rocky (Morgan Jackson), who appears on a revolving Vitruvian Man. Jackson’s physique and acrobatic skills are delivered flawlessly. He struts around the stage with ease showing off his perfect tanned body.
Act 1 is over before we know it as this show moves along at a pace and you never stray from what is taking place before you. Act 2 is full of physical comedy with the seduction scene of Brad and Janet being one of the highlights. This is portrayed with lots fun and frivolity.
The musical numbers are high energy and performed splendidly by an energetic cast. The cast are clearly having a ball as they create a party atmosphere.
The lighting (Nick Richings) and sound (Gareth Owen) clearly need a mention and the tremendous band lead by Adam Smith.
This iconic show has been brilliantly directed by Christopher Luscombe.
All in all a night to remember and if you’ll embrace the craziness you’ll enjoy. Don’t forget your feather boa and have fun.
Runs until 24th January 2026
