My God, has it really been twenty years since the first time my friends and I dressed up in our best Goth and stumbled out at midnight to see what was surely the raciest, and most exciting, interactive movie of the time? Seeing director Steve Hildebrandt’s exciting and highly gifted, mostly Equity cast, brought back a flood of fun memories, and just in time for Halloween! For those unfamiliar with the story of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the fun begins when dweeby newlyweds Brad and Janet’s car breaks down in the midst of a downpour. Caught in the middle of nowhere, the couple seeks refuge in a nearby castle only to enter the bizarre world of “Sweet Transvestite”, Dr. Frank-N-Furter and his faithful minions. Slowly, the ultra-conservative Brad and Janet loosen up and indulge in newfound liberties, thanks to the persistent persuasion of Frank-N-Furter.
Amy Armstrong is funny as hell as the wheelchair-bound Dr. Scott. Molly Callinan, who bears a striking resemblance to movie actress Gina Gershon and sings with her own rock band, is the sexiest Magenta I’ve ever seen. Playing the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter’s loyal handyman, Riff Raff, is Robert Felbinger, who is both gorgeous and rocking. The very muscular Scott Alan Jones stars as Dr. Frank-N-Furter and delivers a powerful and campy hot dog sure to satisfy the most wiener hungry appetites. Jennifer Knox, who danced and sang in the ensemble as Phantom Number 2, also deserves a special mention; her unbelievably agile dancing really stood out and gave a tremendous amount of style and energy to every single number in which she appeared.
The Mercury Theater has a sound system to rival any rock concert, and that, together with imaginative staging wherein the characters move through the audience and balconies, gave this production a real party feel that is essential to making “Rocky Horror” live and breathe after its 34-year-long residence in pop culture.
The message of freedom in love styles is still relevant today and this is definitely a racier “Rocky” stage show than you’ll see at your local theater full of club kids dressed up in fishnet, gleefully clutching their toast and water guns! Sexier costumes and sex laden dance numbers (thanks to choreographer Brenda Didier), brought to life by this skillful cast and crew, make this a sensual treat for the senses. So treat yourself to this wonderful production and get turned on to the erotic optimism of the original Rocky Horror Picture Show.
“The Rocky Horror Show” runs through December 2nd at the Mercury Theater (3745 N. Southport Ave). Ticket prices range from $30-$42.50 and are available at the box office or by calling 773-325-1700.
