L-R_ Lauren Chia (Janet), Connor Carson (Brad), Job Greuter (Riff Raff). Photo Credit – David Freeman
Venue: Milton Keynes Theatre
Performance Date: 10 February 2025
Reviewer: Gemma Fincher
Star Rating: ★★★★
Some shows age gracefully, and then there’s The Rocky Horror Show, a production that refuses to age at all. Now well into its fifth decade of delighting audiences, the 2025 tour proves that Richard O’Brien’s cult classic still has the power to electrify, shock, and entertain in equal measure.
Despite the show’s long-running history, this production feels fresh, vibrant, and packed with energy, thanks to an incredibly strong cast who throw themselves into the madness with absolute abundance. The set and design remain largely unchanged, a testament to the timeless aesthetic of the show; bold, brash, and gloriously camp. Yet, somehow, it never feels outdated. Instead, it serves as a reassuringly familiar backdrop for the chaos to unfold, with the sheer talent and charisma of the cast breathing new life into every scene.
At the heart of Rocky Horror lies its relationship with the audience, and this production thrives on it. From the moment the lights dim, the crowd are primed and ready, armed with callouts and heckles that have become an integral part of the experience. Undoubtedly integral to the Rocky Horror experience is the ability of The Narrator to engage effortlessly with the audience. Enter Nathan Caton, the unsung hero of the show. He is razor-sharp from the get-go, firing back at the audience’s interruptions with effortless wit, modern pop culture references, and impeccable comedic timing. A masterclass in improvisation, keeping even seasoned Rocky Horror fans on their toes.
Rocky Horror is nothing without its core cast, and this tour’s ensemble was truly outstanding. Adam Strong’s Frank-N-Furter commands the stage with all the decadence, menace, and seduction the role demands, delivering every line and lyric with magnetic charm and immense vocal prowess. Connor Carson and Lauren Chia’s delight as Brad and Janet, the ever-innocent couple thrown into a world of absolute pleasure. The pair balance their naivety with just the right amount of tongue-in-cheek self-awareness.
Job Greuter pulls off a masterfully creepy Riff Raff and is complimented beautifully by the effervescent Natasha Hoeberigs in her dual role of Usherette / Magenta. The ever-enigmatic duo are deliciously eerie, while Stacey Monahan’s Columbia is a sheer firecracker of energy. And Rocky? Let’s just say he certainly lives up to his name, with Morgan Jackson perfectly embodying the athleticism required of the role.
The show’s legendary musical numbers Sweet Transvestite, Time Warp, Toucha Toucha Toucha Touch Me has the entire theatre on their feet, dancing, singing, and fully embracing the spirit of audience participation. There’s a reason The Rocky Horror Show continues to sell out theatres worldwide: it’s more than a musical, it’s an experience, a communal celebration of self-expression, freedom, and unfiltered fun.
For newcomers, this production serves as the perfect introduction to the wild and wonderful world of Rocky Horror. For long-time fans, it’s a reassuringly faithful yet thrillingly alive rendition of a show that continues to grow old disgracefully. Whether you’re a Rocky virgin or a seasoned time-warper, one thing is certain: by the time the curtain falls, you’ll be leaving the theatre exhilarated, grinning, and humming the Time Warp all the way home.
If this tour is coming to a city near you, grab your fishnets, dust off your corset, and don’t miss it.
It plays at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 15 February.
