Mannequins donned in elaborate gowns and dancing marionettes: these are the type of decorations that make up the eclectic atmosphere of Kaleidoscope Theatre HQ. Still, these adornments are tame in comparison to the unique creations designed specifically for this year’s showcase of The Rocky Horror Show. Directed by Roderick Glanville and featuring an ensemble cast of 31 local artists, this adaptation of the cult classic stage production looks set to thrill.
After getting caught in a storm, newly engaged lovebirds Janet Weiss (Sarah Anne Murphy) and Brad Majors (Pat Rundell) seek refuge at an ominous castle. Here, Janet and Brad encounter Dr. Frank N’ Furter (Griffin Lea), a cross-dressing mad scientist, and his legion of groupies.
“What I enjoy about this show is that we are not recreating the film version,” says Glanville. “It’s not The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It’s different. You are not going to see the film characters on stage. You are going to see the characters that we have invested in and created. And we have a great cast of killer actors and rock-solid singers.”
Spectators can expect more than just hair-raising melodies and bone-shaking dance numbers. In true Rocky Horror fashion, audience members can bring props and call out to the cast. Popular antics, such as throwing toast and rice, won’t be permitted in the theatre, but substitutes will be for sale in the lobby. And for guests who come in costume? There’s an audience-rated costume contest.
“The audience can get right into it. They can call back, talk to the actors, dance in the aisles. They can do the Time Warp,” explains Glanville. “It is totally interactive and immersive. Three different audiences make three different shows. Everyone is just going to have a blast.”
The madness doesn’t stop with audience participation. While on stage, a handful of cast members will be engaging in zany activities of their own. Brad, Janet, Riff Raff (Kelly Hudson), and Magenta (Tich Wilson), especially, will be exaggerating their roles.
“We have a little competition going on to see who can pull more ridiculous faces,” says Rundell with a laugh. “We are all professionally trained actors who have thrown all of our training out the window. We just can’t take ourselves seriously.”
Interestingly enough, despite thriving in the mess and madness of Rocky Horror, neither Glanville nor Rundell has ever danced the famous Time Warp. Maybe the audience can teach them the moves.
After all, it’s just a jump to the left.
The Rocky Horror Show
October 31 to November 1
$25-$45, McPherson Playhouse
rtms.bc.ca