Trustus Theatre’s production is not the best “Rocky Horror Show,” but does it really matter?

Review by James Harley.

That’s the question I pondered as I left the theatre this weekend after seeing the latest Trustus rendition of this contemporary cult classic. While it certainly lacked in many areas theatrically, the essential purpose of the show is to give the audience a chance to participate and have some fun, and it would be difficult not to fulfill this with any production without expending great effort to consciously ruin it. Rocky Horror is what it is, and if you like it in the first place then you will likely enjoy yourself regardless of the overall quality of the presentation.

If you somehow do not know the story, it follows young lovers Brad and Janet as they suffer an unfortunate flat tire in the countryside on a rainy night. Seeking help, they come to the door of the Frankenstein home, where they are greeted by an array of odd characters (later revealed to be of alien origin) clad scantily and engaging in highly suggestive behavior. Somewhat trapped in this difficult and awkward situation, they are coerced into deviant acts by their transvestite host, Frank N. Furter, who on that night also happens to reveal his newest laboratory creation: a man named Rocky. Brad and Janet’s love is challenged by the many sexual temptations around them, ultimately leading to the, um, climax of the show. While much of the story is a vehicle for gratuitous debauchery and the parody of B-grade science fiction movies, there are also life lessons couched within.

As for the details, the primary shortcoming of the production is its failure to successfully tap into that hearty and poignant substance which underlies the campy fun on the surface. The characterizations of Brad and Janet are not made genuine enough at any point that we actually care about their ultimate fate, even though we can laugh heartily and throw out our favorite shouts at them during their journey (this show is highly interactive, with audience members expected to vocally contribute jokes).

As Brad, Patrick Kelly comes out with a visual bang, looking the part perfectly, but his echo fades rapidly as he is frequently drowned out by the band and all opportunity for vocal subtlety is lost. Despite having a strong and beautiful voice, Sydney Mitchell as Janet often suffers the same fate.

Indeed, the show is a technical mess, with almost constant microphone problems which are not only aural but visual as well. The sight of bulky microphone boxes attached to underwear is highly distracting even in the moments when they are working correctly, and this substantially detracts from the quality of the stage pictures.

The nature of designer Todd Clark’s set is also somewhat problematic in that it simply allows the audience to see too much of the “backstage” area, creating a sense of clutter and distracting from the focal points on the stage proper.

On the positive side, Rocky Horror veteran Scott Blanks gives the solid performance you would expect from him as Frank N. Furter, though often undercut by microphone issues as well (unfortunately including his initial entrance). His final number, “I’m Going Home,” redeems any of his shortcomings and is one of the highlights of the show.

Also, thank goodness for Christopher Cockrell as Riff Raff, Frank's servant. Microphone or no microphone, his vocal strength and commitment set an example for all to follow, and he is a refreshing and driving presence in every song.

Similar commitment is displayed by Andrew Stepp as Eddie, who, in his two minutes on stage, manages to raise the energy level several notches.

I could go on, but it is almost pointless to review this show in the first place. If you know “Rocky Horror,” then you will be engaged by the constant interaction, though perhaps mildly disappointed at the musical and sound quality as you tap and sing along. Also expect a few unconventional aspects, of course, under Chad Henderson’s direction. If you do not know the show, it is a spectacle that you should certainly experience at some point anyway, simply due to its uniqueness.

“The Rocky Horror Show” runs through July 25. For reservations call Trustus Theatre at 254-9732.

To read the Trustus Theatre press release for “The Rocky Horror Show,” CLICK HERE.

To read reviews of other recent shows at Trustus, CLICK HERE.