Xavier University Theatre Presents
RICHARD O’BRIEN’S THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, Oct. 23-31
(CINCINNATI, Oct. 1, 2026) – Xavier University Theatre continues its 2026-27 season with the hit musical Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show. The show runs Oct. 23-31.
The ultimate cult musical experience, The Rocky Horror Show is a wild, hilarious ride packed with rock ‘n’ roll, sci-fi thrills, outrageous characters and audience-fueled fun. When wholesome sweethearts Brad and Janet seek shelter from a storm in the eerie castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, they are swept into a world of unforgettable music, over-the-top antics and deliciously campy chaos. Fresh from its acclaimed 50th-anniversary Broadway revival, which earned nine Tony Award nominations, The Rocky Horror Show remains the most outrageous party in town, and a perfect celebration for Halloween night!
“Rocky Horror is as groundbreaking today as when it premiered,” said Stephen Skiles, chair of Xavier’s Department of Music and Theatre, and director of the show. “It is funny, energetic, timely and original. We’ve had great conversations in rehearsal about the show’s inclusion and identity themes, and I’m really excited to bring this fun and poignant musical to the stage at Xavier.”
Senior Kyra Sander (she/her), who plays Janet, looks forward to sharing the Xavier students’ perspective on the play with audiences. “I’m excited to bring RHS to the Xavier Theatre stage because we are introducing a new perspective on this iconic play, while still paying homage to the play’s legacy. Uncovering the heart of this story has been beautiful, and rehearsals have been such a blast. Getting to work with an amazing cast and production team has been incredibly rewarding, and I can’t wait to share these past few weeks of hard work and dedication with the community,” she said.
Senior Jamie Swisshelm (they/them), who plays Frank-N-Furter, said the show feels as timely as ever. “The Rocky Horror Show is still so important and relevant,” they said. “At its core, it’s a story about finding yourself, and finding comfort and liberation within that. That message is hidden under layers of camp and fun, but it is there, and it rings loud and true. Every single rehearsal has been filled with fun and laughter. I think audiences are really going to enjoy what we have in store.”
And senior Josi Pietrzyk (she/her), who plays Magenta, notes the cultural impact of the show, saying, “The Rocky Horror Show is a playful love letter to classic sci-fi, horror films and musical theatre, but its cultural impact also means a lot to me. There aren’t many shows that have the fanbase and community ofRocky Horror, which highlights its impact. I’m really excited for people to see our production. We honor that legacy, while also subverting expectations about the show.”
The cast includes seniors Luke Heetderks (Brad), Pietrzyk (Magenta), Cohen Rice (Dr. Scott), Kyra Sander (Janet) and Swisshelm (Frank); juniors Taylor Mattingly (Rocky) and Anna Meister (Narrator); sophomores Sophie Mullins (Riff Raff) and Isabella Varricchio (Columbia); and first-year Cameron Wilson (Eddie). Ensemble members include seniors Reilly Somerville, Brianna Starkey and Veronica Talbert; juniors Olivia Burklow, Molly Ciuci and Anna Hittepole; sophomore Lilliana Stiverson; and first-year students Lainey Caton and Ryan Scheiner.
The show is directed and produced by Stephen Skiles. Music direction is by Scot Buzza, and choreography is by alumna Jenna Treinen (’23). The design team includes Joe Beumer (lighting designer), Joe Leonard (set designer and technical director), Jessica Pitcairn (costume designer), Jason Sebastian (sound designer) and Matt Lee (conductor). The assistant director is Kelsey Schwarber (’21). The stage manager is junior Anya Sperber, and the assistant stage managers are sophomore Maria Rund and first-year Jenna Mansfield.
Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 23, 24 and 30; at 2:00 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 31; closing at 10:00 p.m. on Oct. 31. Tickets are available now. They are $20 each for adults and $15 each for Xavier students, faculty and staff. To purchase tickets, visit https://xaviertheatre.ludus.com.
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