Review: The Rocky Horror Show

Monday 19 May

If you’re looking for a night out that’s equal parts glitter, fishnets and absolute mayhem then this is the show for you!

For the uninitiated – or “virgins,” as the show’s regulars will gleefully inform you – The Rocky Horror Show is a gloriously camp musical sendup of B-movie horror and sci-fi classics.

The plot is a bit hard to navigate but in essence, a newly newly engaged couple – Brad and Janet – get stranded in a storm and stumble into the castle of Doctor Frank-N-Furter who has a penchant for mad science and muscle-bound creations.

Cue a parade of catchy songs, outrageous costumes, and more sexual confusion than a 1970s disco!

This is not Jesus Christ Superstar!

The current UK tour of Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show runs well into 2026 and is currently playing The Palace Theatre Manchester until 31st May.

A unique and beloved aspect of The Rocky Horror Show is its tradition of audience participation.

The Narrator is at the centre of this interaction with members of the audience shouting out jokes, puns and heckles as the show progresses.

On this tour, the role of Narrator is exquisitely performed by Jackie Clune – who responded with quick wit and perfect timing.

It’s a wonderful cast, but the true highlight is Jason Donovan donning the corset as Doctor Frank-n-Furter.

Yes, that’s right: Jason Donovan, once the clean-cut heartthrob of Neighbours and Especially for You fame, is now strutting across the stage in stilettos, proving that time really does warp in the most delightful of ways!

Jason Donovan brings a cheeky charisma and just enough Aussie sass to the role, making each eyebrow wiggle and high kick feel like a wink to the audience. He was clearly having the time of his life – and so will you!

Audience Participation

One does not simply watch The Rocky Horror Show; one becomes part of it.

Audience interaction is legendary: expect to see punters in full costume, shouting scripted (and unscripted) “call back” lines, and performing the “Time Warp” with wild abandon.

Props are a must – newspapers for the rainstorm, rubber gloves to snap in sync with Frank and playing cards to fling during I’m Going Home.

Let’s Do The Time Warp (Again)

The current UK tour is a riotous, high-camp celebration of everything that’s made Rocky Horror a phenomenon for over 50 years.

Jason Donovan’s Frank is a deliciously naughty master of ceremonies, leading his cast (and the audience) through a night of raucous fun and gender-bending glee.

Whether you’re a seasoned Transylvanian or a trembling Rocky Horror virgin, you’ll leave grinning-and probably humming “The Time Warp” for days.

In short: fishnets are optional, audience participation is not and Jason Donovan in a corset is the reboot you never knew you needed!