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12 September 2024

The Rocky Horror Show on London’s West End review: ‘A rebellious celebration of camp and queerness’

Richard O'Brien himself made an apperance during this ever-enduring spectacular that shows no signs of slowing down even decades on, as Attitude's Ashley Davey discovers

5.0 rating

By Ashley Davey

Ensemble, Morgan Jackson, as Rocky, Lauren Chia as Janet, Job Greuter as Riff Raff, Jason Donovan as Frank-N-Furter, Edward Bullingham as Dr Scott, Natasha Hoeberigs as Magenta and Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli as Columbia) (Image: Provided)
Ensemble, Morgan Jackson, as Rocky, Lauren Chia as Janet, Job Greuter as Riff Raff, Jason Donovan as Frank-N-Furter, Edward Bullingham as Dr Scott, Natasha Hoeberigs as Magenta and Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli as Columbia) (Image: David Freeman)

The Rocky Horror Show‘s latest West End revival at the Dominion Theatre is proving the enduring appeal of Richard O’Brien’s cult classic – indeed, the man himself made an apperance during Attitude’s visit.

As is often the case with Rocky productions, many in the audience arrived in full regalia – fishnets, corsets, and glittery top hats, setting the bar for the level of camp shenanigans ahead.

Jason Donovan’s return as Frank-N-Furter after a 25-year UK hiatus is a triumph. He commands the stage with a perfect blend of camp and menace, clearly relishing every moment.

Jason Donovan as Frank-N-Furter (Image: David Freeman)
Jason Donovan as Frank-N-Furter (Image: David Freeman)
Natasha Hoeberigs as Usherette (Image: David Freeman)
Natasha Hoeberigs as Usherette (Image: David Freeman)
Morgan Jackson as Rocky (Image: David Freeman)
Morgan Jackson as Rocky (Image: David Freeman)

BAFTA-winner Mawaan Rizwan brings a fresh energy to The Narrator, his deadpan delivery expertly playing off the audience’s enthusiastic callouts. What makes Rocky stand out is that audience participation is not just tolerated but actively encouraged – a refreshing change from the hushed reverence expected at many West End shows these days.

Throughout the performance, seasoned Rocky Horror fans shouted well-known responses to iconic lines, while newcomers quickly caught on. The cast, far from being thrown by these interjections, incorporated them seamlessly into their performances, often responding with improvised quips that kept the energy high.

Jason Donovan as Frank N Furter (Image: David Freeman)
It’s the first time Jason has performed as Frank in London in 25 years (Image: David Freeman)

During ‘Time Warp’, Rizwan led an impromptu dance tutorial, turning the entire theatre into a riotous dance floor. It’s hard to imagine many other West End shows where audiences are not just allowed but urged to leap from their seats mid-performance.

This production reminds us why The Rocky Horror Show has endured for nearly five decades. It’s more than just a show – it’s a communal experience that celebrates individuality and self-expression. As Rizwan himself told Attitude, Rocky is “a liberation process for people who felt like the odd one out.” 

12. L-R_ Job Greuter (Riff Raff), Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli (Columbia), Natasha Hoeberigs (Magenta). Photo Credit - David Freeman.jpg
The cast of the new production during a group number (Image: David Freeman)
14. L-R_ Connor Carson (Brad), Jason Donovan (Frank N Furter), Lauren Chia (Janet). Photo Credit - David Freeman
Rocky was also adapted as a 1975 musical film (Image: David Freeman)
17. L-R_ Lauren Chia (Janet), Connor Carson (Brad). Photo Credit - David Freeman
The show’s London run lasts until 20 September (Image: David Freeman)

The surprise appearance of Richard O’Brien at the curtain call, revealed dramatically behind a Pride flag, brought the house down. It was a fitting end to an evening that felt less like a traditional theatre performance and more like a joyous, rebellious celebration of camp and queerness.

The Rocky Horror Show runs at the Dominion Theatre until 20 September and then continues on tour until 2025. For tickets, please go to RockyHorror.co.uk.

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