REVIEW: The Rocky Horror Picture show at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking

Stockings. Corsets. Boas. Suspenders. Let’s be honest – if any of those items are involved, you know you’re in for a great night. The girls (and guys) were out in force at Woking’s New Victoria Theatre for The Rocky Horror Show’s press night. Truly unique in its entirety, Rocky Horror has had a cult following since its premiere.. The New Victoria theatre was full to the brim with eclectic costumes and excitable groups of friends ready for their ultimate night out at the theatre.

Since its first appearance at The Royal Court Theatre in June 1973, Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror Show” has become the world’s favourite rock n’ roll musical. It has been performed worldwide in over 30 countries in every continent and has been translated into more than 20 languages. Needless to say, the show’s big-screen adaptation “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Richard O’Brien, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic movie-musicals of all time.

The show was absolutely fantastic and is blessed with one of the best casts on the circuit who demonstrate that in this show, there is no such thing as ‘taboo’ in Rocky Horror. Leading this knockout ensemble is Liam Tamne as Frank-n-Furter who was superb as the most famous “sweet transvestite” in the world.

His interpretation of this iconic role was flirtatious, sexy and at times, downright filthy. He had the audience like putty in his hands. Diana Vickers, of X-Factor fame, plays Janet Weiss. Before last night, my memory of Vickers was of the young, hippie teen with the nasal voice from ‘The X Factor’. My, oh my; how times change. Vickers is now a fully established leading lady. Her voice was note-perfect and resonated beautifully around the theatre. By her side was Richard Meek as the endearing Brad Majors, who sang brilliantly, particularly in his solo number in Act II. 

Kristian Lavercombe has famously performed in Rocky Horror over a thousand times. This experience has made him a shining asset in this remarkable cast. His portrayl of 'Riff Raff' was stunning. His tone was oustanding, and his voice was the most powerful in the cast, particularly highlighted in his solo lines of "There's a light".  Alongside him is Kay Murray as Magenta; the two made a tantalising yet creepy pair. Wicked allumni Sophie Linder Lee makes an excellent Columbia (although I was left questioning why her perfectly able tap dancing was dubbed over with a track as she danced in plain heels).

The stage was well used with a fantastically diverse array of set pieces. The lighting design, especially for Rocky's most famous song 'Time Warp' was electrifying and massively contributed to the success of the number. 

Rocky Horror is a truly unique theatrical experience. It’s rare to see a show which not only tolerates heckling, but embraces it. It encourages audience members to show up in their underwear, sing along and leave their seats to dance in the aisles. It’s simply one of the most fun evenings at the theatre I’ve ever experienced. Incomparable. Brilliant.

Review by Harriet Langdown 

Rating: ★★★★

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