The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary Spectacular Tour | Dominion Theatre

On a dark and stormy night, sweethearts Brad and Janet find themselves with a flat tire. In search of assistance, they stumble through the night and come upon a very creepy looking mansion belonging to an erotically charged scientist. During their stay, it’s not just a toned and beefy creation that is awoken…

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, which made its world premiere in 1973 at the Royal Court Theatre. Following that, a film adaptation was made in 1975, transforming it into a much beloved cult classic that has been performed in various forms around the globe ever since. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the movie’s release, and we caught the celebration tour during its stop at the Dominion Theatre. 

Another show with no content warnings mentioned! There are virgins (the name for Rocky Horror newcomers) in the audience, who aren’t quite prepared for what’s in store.

Speaking of which, we came into this as absolute virgins, knowing that Rocky Horror is renowned for being kinky, a bit on the supernatural side and very involved- but otherwise unsure what to expect. 

Involved is an understatement, this show actively encourages and celebrates the audience getting involved in a rather unconventional way: each audience member is given a goody bag filled with items to use during the film screening. We have the best time collectively, singing, heckling the movie scenes, waving our glowsticks and putting newspaper on our heads, as guided by the shadow cast.

The shadow cast were incredibly committed to the bit. It was amazing to get to see diehard fans sharing roles and their love of Rocky Horror. Their timing is spot on and their performances of the scenes are creative, really helping the show come to life and showcasing why it has connected with so many people. No, it's not perfect, but it doesn’t need to be because the fandom devotion shines through. 

It’s also worth mentioning that the costume contest is an excellent touch in celebrating the power of the show, with its ability to bring people together to become part of a passionate community that just keeps growing.

The pre-show Q&A is fascinating for newcomers and long-term fans alike. It gives a bit of a primer to the film and the history of the show, whilst opening up a dialogue as to why the show has had such longevity and the kind of impact it has had on the original cast. 

For fans, this really is a celebration of acceptance, self expression and loving your fellow creature of the night. For newcomers, it’s the chance to get fully immersed in this weird and sexually liberated world. It’s clear to see why the story is such a meaningful one, especially for the queer community.

This is one hell of a night out. However you identify and express yourself, whether you’re a virgin or seasoned Transylvanian, it is absolutely worth time-warping to catch this at a venue near you. 

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review