★★★★

“pure anarchic campy joy”

First produced at The Royal Court in 1973, Rocky Horror has been entrancing its cult fan base for over 50 years and this new production follows confidently in the show’s successful footsteps.

The plot is incoherent, and broadly irrelevant. Strait laced, newly engaged Brad and Janet’s car breaks down by a nearby castle. They enter the castle, looking for a phone, and madness ensues – sex, reanimated corpses, aliens and yet more sex. All strung together by iconic, and unbelievably catchy music.

Christopher Luscombe’s direction is energetic and fun. It feels like the film, and thus the original production, but doesn’t feel tired. Much of that is the direction, but it is also due to the enthusiastic heckling from the die-hard fans in the audience. There are traditional moments for audience members to shout, and luckily this audience obliges. It’s worth noting that this show means so much to so many people – there are so many in costume, having the time of their lives. For lesser fans, the whole thing does feel at times bemusing, but it’s a special environment and a deeply welcoming one. It also clearly means so much to the cast, Jason Donovan tears up after one song, he is after all reprising a role that he first played 25 years ago. It’s powerful to see something that is such a cult phenomenon being staged.

Nathan M Wright’s choreography is dynamic and playful. The chorus pop up and down like whack-a-moles, writhe in sensual pleasure, and provide ghoulish atmosphere.

Nick Richings’ lighting design is startlingly good. This is Rocky Horror with the glitz and glamour West End treatment.

Mawaan Rizwan as the narrator is joyous. He’s a little confined by the stiffness of the role but when he’s able to play a bit more, his natural charisma and mischievous charm shine through. Lauren Chia and Connor Carson are brilliant as Janet and Brad – sometimes seen as quite boring parts, these two bring a real humanity, warmth and comedy to the roles. Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli as Columbia is also a real scene stealer. Obviously, Jason Donovan has been the big headliner for the show. His performance steers between cheeky and languid. While it occasionally feels lacklustre, he is never without emotion.

The second act of the show drags a little, most of the best songs are out of the way and the plot disintegrates into complete chaos. But the first act and moments in the second are pure anarchic campy joy.

VITAMIN D at Soho Theatre

★★★★

“bursts with joy and warmth”

Saher Shah brings her excellent debut play back to London after its 2023 tour. Prepare to laugh, cry, and leave both dazed and dazzled.

Vitamin D explores the cultural taboo of divorce within British Pakistani communities with wit and warmth, and a hefty dose of emotion.

Larki, played by Shah, has returned home to Pinner, after the breakdown of her marriage in Manchester. Now she must deal with nosy neighbourhood aunties (played with pitch perfect comic timing by Zyna Goldy), friends who just want the best for her, and the nervously well-meaning ministrations of her mother (Renu Brindle). Larki doesn’t want to be a solicitor, she wants to be a poet. Also, she wants to be left alone. The second is definitely not going to happen.

The simple story is fleshed out by the strength of the performances. ‘Friend’ played by Anshula Bain is a force to be reckoned with, dominating the stage with epic dance moves, subtle acts of kindness, and gag after gag. Brindle’s performance stole it for me, quietly depicting a mother who wants to help but doesn’t know how.

Melina Namdar’s direction plays with the light and shade of the piece, blasting rap music (sound design by Riwa Saab) one minute and allowing space for quiet, intimate conversations the next. This private sphere of women is brought to life, depicting these familiar and real characters with tenderness and humour.

The slam poetry, which hangs the story together and offers insight into the protagonist’s inner turmoil, is the weakest part of the show. It should provide poignant relief to the high energy interactions, but it feels a little flat, especially in comparison to the strength of Shah’s dialogue, which is masterful.

Maariyah Sharjil’s set is draped with rugs and cushions, with projections of the handwritten notes that Larki scribbles throughout the show. It combines modern and traditional set design in a way which echoes the spirit of the show.

This is a show that feels important, and unusual. It’s discussing a serious and significant topic which needs more awareness, but it also bursts with joy and warmth.

Tag Archives: Auriol Reddaway

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

★★★★

UK Tour

ROCKY HORROR SHOW at the Dominion Theatre

★★★★

“pure anarchic campy joy”

ROCKY HORROR SHOW at the Dominion Theatre then tour continues

Reviewed on 10th September 2024

by Auriol Reddaway

Photography by David Freeman

Previously reviewed at this venue:

GREASE | ★★★★ | May 2022

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

Click here to see our Recommended Shows page

VITAMIN D

★★★★

Soho Theatre

VITAMIN D at Soho Theatre

★★★★

“bursts with joy and warmth”