The Rocky Horror Show at Sheffield Lyceum Theatre review: Jason Donovan shines in lead role as wacky, camp and iconic musical comes to Sheffield
It’s eccentric, it’s camp and it’s sure to really drive you insaaaaaaaaaaaaane.
It may be in its 51st year of production but that hasn’t stopped the cult classic that is The Rocky Horror Show from reeling in the crowds for a wacky, turbo-paced rock-n-roll party that really does take you to another dimension.
To set the scene, The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of two young and recently engaged lovers who wind up at a spooky old castle belonging to none other than the iconic Frank-n-Furter (played by Jason Donovan) - a cross-dressing mad scientist who is hellbent on creating the perfect man.
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Donovan shines in the role, with his faultless vocals and impeccable comedy timing coming to the fore, leaving the audience gagging for more. The crowd at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre were certainly up for it, and it’s fair to say that The Rocky Horror Show fans are some of the most devoted in the world.
Over the decades, it has developed a real cult following and they came in their droves - and their wonderful costumes - ready to sing and dance their heart out to the musical’s esteemed collection of songs.
Audience participation was key and is actively encouraged, with the narrator (played by comedian Nathan Caton) always on hand to guide us through the story and deliver humorous quips in response to the crowd’s remarks.
Some of the jokes did get a bit repetitive but Caton’s interactions with the audience were witty and quick, and it’s fair to say he left no prisoners. The costumes, as you might expect, left little to the imagination and the musical numbers came with high energy dance routines that let you jumping to the left, stepping to the right and doing the pelvic thrust.
The Time Warp was of course a highlight. It’s the show’s most famous song but Donovan’s take on Sweet Transvestite was also a memorable number on the night. I knew snippets about The Rocky Horror Show but went in to watch it as very much a novice - and I’m glad I did it.
If this is a musical that’s been on your radar and you’ve fancied giving a try, just do it. Let your mind be blown, embrace the delicious debauchery and prepare to be entertained - you won’t regret it.
You can The Rocky Horror Show at Sheffield Lyceum Theatre until Saturday, November 30. You can find out more and buy tickets here.
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