By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW presented by The Carnegie through November 2nd. I attended the Opening Saturday matinee performance.
Full disclosure: I reviewed this show in 2024 and while I am not going to do a straight-up comparison, I am making a concerted effort to point out things I may not have pointed out the first time around. -Kat
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW with book, music, and lyrics by Richard O’Brien has returned to The Carnegie with excellent timing: having a midnight show on Halloween just feels right, doesn’t it? For those who may not know, it’s a classic boy meets girl story with incredible music and – oh, did we mention aliens and plenty of sexual expression? Director & Choreographer Eric Byrd hits this one out of the park again and – I daresay – even farther this time.
Scenic & Video Designer (as well as Producer) Tyler Gabbard’s vision and execution thereof are different, exciting, and just plain smart. Shout-out to work by both Lighting Designer Julie Cowger and Sound Designer Jason Sebastian for an immersive but never distracting experience. Music Director (and keyboard player) Steve Goers once again brings us a beautiful vocal aesthetic through his very talented cast. And kudos once again to the team who helped make the actors look great: Costume Designer Jeff Shearer and Wig Designer Candace Leyland. Rumour has it Sam Evans (who plays Usherette/Magenta) did several makeup lewks in addition to her own and I think that deserves a mention. I will need to hire her to make me gorgeous one of these days – call me!
Fortunately for the audience, most of the brilliant performing ensemble has returned this year and they are coming in hot! Two of particular note are Caroline Rakestraw as Janet Weiss and Tommy Sanders as Brad Majors. Each has an excellent command of the stage and their character arcs with flawless vocals to boot. If these two artists are an indication of how the future of theatre looks, we should sleep easily.
Back in the corset of Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter is the superb Dusty Ray Bottoms. They didn’t need to come back even better, but they did and here we are lucky enough to be able to enjoy it. There was not one line, one note, or one expressive turn of the facial muscles needing to be changed. Mx. Bottoms has mastered the delicate art of giving homage to the actor who originated the role 50 years ago and making it their own which is no small task. Bravx to Dusty Ray!
With some of the best artists in the area on stage and behind it, The Carnegie’s The Rocky Horror Show should not be missed. Pacing is smooth and helps a somewhat weaker book – but let’s be honest: Rocky’s primary draw is and always was the music. Given how well the show is selling, I encourage veterans and virgins alike to get their tickets now for one of its final few performances.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 