It has been more than five decades since the start of The Rocky Horror Show’s massive success, yet homophobia is still very much alive in the United States. Richard O’Brien’s play has gained global prominence and the status of a cult classic since its release in the early 1970s. In its essence, his work has signified the tremendous impact of the sexual revolution. Despite a low budget and no star-studded cast, the play has become a massive hit in the U.K. and throughout the United States. Rocky Horror has truly transcended the limitations of the stage or screen, encompassing not only a performance but a sub sculpture of sorts and a distinct community. I have had the pleasure of experiencing my first Rocky Horror Show at Hormel Theatre. The musical, originally written by Richard O’Brien, is directed by Robert Kolby Carter and performed by the Phoenix Theatre Company. Rocky Horror Show has engraved itself in my memory as a boundary-bending production, embracing the idea of sexual liberation through gender-fluid, outlandish costuming and electrifying vocal performance of the cast.
The Rocky Horror Show is a highly-acclaimed, revolutionary musical by Richard O’Brien. He wrote it as an ode to science fiction and B horror movies. With no acting gigs, O’Brien decided to occupy himself by reflecting on his childhood obsession with schlock horror, rock and roll, glam rock, and science fiction in crafting an inventive premise for Rocky Horror. Some of the major themes of the musical are gender-fluidity, bisexuality, social stigma surrounding sex, and sexual liberation. The Rocky Horror Show examines the societal shift from repression to freedom through the character arcs of Brad and Janet. They are symbolic of the society they are a part of – asexual, conservative, yet ready for more, akin to so many individuals on the brink of the 1970s, an era of sexual liberation.
Although Frank-N-Furter’s performance of sexuality may seem extreme and obscene to Brad and Janet, it inspires them to explore themselves. Thus, by the end of the play, they give in to the allure sexual freedom exudes and satisfy their desires. In fact, both Brad and Janet have intercourse with Frank-n-Furter, which further indicates that sexual desires might not be bound to gender. Therefore, it is evident that the themes of gender, sexual liberation, and repression play a major part in the production, which focuses on sex as a taboo subject. Whereas Brad and Janet symbolize innocence, their transformation alludes to the generational shift in attitudes towards sex, gender, and desire.
The next fundamental aspect of the musical important to discuss is outlandish, experimental, and stereotype-challenging technical aspects, particularly in regards to make-up and costuming. Although, in 2021, few would be surprised to see a semblance of a drag show, with men wearing extravagant make-up and racy underwear, the Phoenix Theater Company manages to put a little spin on the typical fashion of Rocky Horror. Firstly, it is crucial to acknowledge that each character is very recognizable mostly because of the distinct eccentric outfit choices. Secondly, costumes are rather kitsch and camp, which reflects the story and its themes perfectly. As for the other technical aspects, it is worth mentioning that the scenic design was rather inventive. This refers to the integration of technology into the musical, including a runway with neon lights, neon lighting bolts to set the tone, as well as atmospheric fog and projections.
As for performances, it is important to mention the whole cast is exceptionally talented. The portrayals of Frank-N-Furter, Brad and Janet, in particular, have been especially electrifying. They have managed to entrance the audience and create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Cullen Law masterfully caught and controlled the attention of the crowd as the Narrator. The chemistry between the actors playing Brad and Janet is apparent from the first scene of them together. However, the most memorable aspect of the performances was the vocal skills of so many members of the cast. They have done a phenomenal job at creating a sense of anticipation before a particularly dramatic scene with their melodies alone. It is a well-known fact, at least among fans of musicals, that Rocky Horror’s “Time Warp” musical number is a chance for the audience to interact with the cast. Because of COVID restrictions, such an opportunity was stripped away from viewers. Despite that, all of the cast members have compensated for it more than enough with vocals that were truly enchanting.
In conclusion, it is evident that the legacy of Rocky Horror remains potent. The musical production of The Rocky Horror Show by the Phoenix Theater Company has left me astounded at the beauty and depth of theatre. Rocky Horror encapsulates the essence of sexual liberation, which has defined the 1970s, yet continues to wreak havoc in society today. The ideas of sexual and gender fluidity, hidden desires, and fantasies remain relevant nowadays. Stellar vocal performances combined with intricate technical aspects set the mood for the story, making the musical all the more delicious and the performances electrifying.