Tonight I had the pleasure of taking in the Randolf Academy for the Performing Arts production of
Richard O'Brien's The Rocky Horror Show
.
First impressions first. Walking into the theatre, before any hint of a show begins, the set impresses with its simplicity and versatility. Three looming windows stand in front of a simple ramp, and completely set the mood and ambience.
The mood is set again when the narrators (yes, this role has been split and is delivered with precision by Genna Giampaolo and Courtney Lamanna) lay out the ground rules. This is a live show, we are told, so participate, but don't disrupt. And then we are launch right in.
This is a fast paced production, running a smart 2 hours, even with intermission. Cleanly executed and delivered with tremendous energy by its 27-member cast. My hat off to director Thomas Morgan Jones who manages the tremendously large ensemble with a deftness that keeps the images fresh, and never lets the stage become cluttered.
The overall look and feel of the production certainly pays homage to the movie, most notably in Frankn 'n' Furter's pearl necklace, and the staging of the Act II seduction scenes, which, like the movie, make use of silhouette. However, decisions such as the delivery of
Science Fiction Double Feature
as an ensemble piece, and the clever use of ensemble actors as living set pieces were notable departures from both the movie, and other productions I have seen. This production pays homage to the version most familiar to us, but doesn't follow slavishly.
For those who don't know, the story, such as it is, revolves around newly engaged couple Brad and Janet, played by Eitan Kersman and Cheyenne Scott, whose car breaks down on their way to tell old school teacher and friend Dr. Scott (Eric Lehmann) about their impending nuptials. Seeking shelter and help at a nearby castle they are witness to the animation of a muscle-man, the murder of a biker, and are each seduced by transvestite inventor Frank 'n' Furter... and then it gets weird.
But don't let the plot bother you. This show isn't about plot.
This show is about energy, and energy is there in abundance. Every person on stage in this production radiates energy and engages your attention.
Scott and Kerzman do a good turn as the awkward Brad and Janet, as do Ashleigh Kasaboski and Michele DesLauriers as servants Magenta and Columbia respectively. Jeffrey Bowers as Eddie comes on strong, but was a bit unable to maintain audience focus in the chaotic circumstances of his cameo. Lehmann as the scientist Dr. Scott was enjoyable, but also seemed to have trouble establishing himself. Paul Waliggo Kakeeto, playing the title role of Rocky, moves like water and is at his best when showing off his decidedly attractive body. However, his performance opening night felt a bit unfocused, as if he could not decide whether to tap the vibe of the wide-eyed innocent, or the burgeoning sex-machine.
Achoring this production are Rikki Browne as Riff Raff and Brandyn McKinson as Frank 'n' Furter.
Browne is inhabits Riff Raff and makes the character fully her own. Her steps, movements, intonations, and ticks are tremendous, and she is always in the moment, even when in the background of an ensemble number.
McKinson as Frank completely owns the stage as soon as he puts his high-heeled shoes to the ground. Despite the pearls and corset, he exudes a masculinity and power that commands attention and receives it. A performance with presence.
As I've mentioned, this production makes high energy choices, from a gospel chord at the end of
Sweet Transvestite
to its up-tempo arrangements of songs generally. It's a production about having fun, and making sure the audience comes along for the ride.
Interestingly, I commented to a friend at intermission that, despite corsets, underwear, and large packages stuffed into golden swim suits, this was probably the most unsexual production of the Rocky that I had seen. I think I mis-spoke, however. Certainly in ACT II, the bedroom seductions did not shy away from sex in every position, with Tab A being inserted... well, almost anywhere. However, I think that what was missing was a certain seediness and sensuality that I've come to associate with the show. The silhouette sex show was sort of Austin Powers in nature. Fresh and fun is not bad, and, to be frank, The Rocky Horror Show isn't known for plumbing the depths of the human condition, but there is a certain extent to which the moments of melancholy, loss, and disillusionment get missed.
When all is said and done, this production is a good one, and a welcome return to the Bathurst Street stage after 22 years. Not much was called out audience-participation-wise on opening night. I think the large number of parents in the audience might have had a bit to do with that. However, I am certainly looking forward to attending the midnight show at 11:59 this Friday night. Maybe I'll catch you there!
A rolick with Rocky at the Randolph. Worth the price of admission.
Richard O'Brien's The Rocky Horror Show
runs until July 30 at the Bathurst Street Theatre.
For more information, visit http://www.randolphacademy.com/