REVIEW - THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW | PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER | 26/05/2025

The Rocky Horror Show at The Palace Theatre Manchester – A Wild, Wicked, Wonderful Night Out!

Every time The Rocky Horror Show returns to Manchester, a wave of electric anticipation sweeps through me. This cult classic has been rocking audiences since 1973 with its rebellious spirit, infectious energy, and unapologetic celebration of being yourself. Directed by Christopher Luscombe, this 2024/25 tour production is a dazzling reminder why Rocky Horror remains one of the most beloved, outrageous, and endlessly entertaining musicals out there. With a cast bursting with charisma and a stage alive with camp, chaos, and a generous dose of glitter, this show knows how to throw one heck of a party—and everyone’s invited.

The plot is as wonderfully bonkers as ever. Brad and Janet, the picture-perfect all-American couple, find themselves stranded in the rain with a flat tyre. Seeking help, they stumble upon Frank-N-Furter’s eerie castle, where nothing is quite what it seems. What follows is a wild ride of cross-dressing, scientific experiments, and a whole lot of rock ‘n’ roll. Frank-N-Furter’s creation, Rocky, comes to life, stirring up jealousy and rebellion, while the eerie siblings Riff Raff and Magenta watch on, ready to reclaim their strange domain. It’s a story that defies logic yet hits all the right emotional notes — love, freedom, and finding the courage to be yourself in a world that demands conformity.

Sue Blane’s iconic costume designs shine brighter than ever, perfectly capturing each character’s unique flair while weaving them into a unified vision of fabulousness. From Frank’s unforgettable corset to Columbia’s electrifying dance numbers, every outfit screams personality. The set, designed by Hugh Durrant, is a marvel—a twisting, revolving Frankenstein’s castle that morphs seamlessly from eerie exterior to science lab to intergalactic spaceship. Lighting designer Nick Richings ramps up the spectacle with vibrant disco hues, laser beams slicing through the auditorium, and flashes of dramatic red that pulse with the show’s wild energy. And the music—oh, the music! Richard O’Brien’s timeless score is a relentless parade of rock anthems and cheeky tunes, from “Sweet Transvestite” to “The Time Warp,” each number met with thunderous applause and raucous singalongs. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the infectious rhythm and feel the joy reverberate through the theatre.

Adam Strong’s Frank-N-Furter was a showstopper. His electric presence and rich, emotive vocals brought fresh depth to the role, balancing the character’s wild antics with genuine moments of yearning. Lauren Chia and Connor Carson as Janet and Brad were utterly captivating; Chia’s transformation from sweet innocence to bold desire was jaw-dropping, matched by Carson’s quirky charm and heartfelt vulnerability. Jackie Clune as the Narrator stole the show with razor-sharp wit, bouncing off the audience with sass and brilliant improvisations that had the theatre roaring with laughter. The dynamic duo of Job Greuter and Natasha Hoeberigs as Riff Raff and Magenta were hauntingly perfect, captivating the audience with every sinister glance and powerful note. Morgan Jackson’s Rocky was more than just muscle, bringing an endearing humanity and energy that lit up the stage. And Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli’s Columbia dazzled with toe-tapping energy and flawless dance moves. Ryan Carter-Wilson’s dual roles as Dr. Scott and Eddie brought impressive versatility, especially his explosive “Hot Patootie” number that rocked the house. Every cast member embodied their character with focus, flair, and a whole lot of sparkle, making this production a vibrant, living celebration.

The Rocky Horror Show at The Palace Theatre is pure theatrical joy — a high-octane, glitter-strewn celebration where the audience becomes part of the cast and everyone is invited to let go, be bold, and dance like nobody’s watching. Whether you’re a lifelong Rocky devotee or a curious first-timer, this show delivers laughter, love, and liberation in bucketloads. It’s a night out that breaks all the rules, smashes the mould, and leaves you grinning ear to ear, humming those iconic tunes long after the curtain falls. So, gather your friends, dust off your fishnets, and prepare for a hot patootie of a night that’s as much about discovering who you are as it is about having the time of your life. Don’t just watch The Rocky Horror Show—live it!

“Get ready to do The Time Warp and rediscover the wild, wonderful you—The Rocky Horror Show is the ultimate party where everyone’s invited!”

If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - David Freeman.