The Rocky Horror Show Is "Absolute Pleasure" at The Palace

Give yourself over to absolute pleasure! The Rocky Horror Show, presented by Infuse Productions and the Palace Theatre, is unabashedly queer and packed with audience participation. After playing to sold-out crowds in its first week, tickets are limited for the remaining shows of this cult classic. Get yours before it closes on Nov. 2!

Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Shaidon Woods) surrounded by an ensemble of Phantoms. Photo by Ross Davidson.

As a storm rages, straightlaced sweethearts Brad (Jared Brown) and Janet (McKenna Langdon) seek shelter in a castle inhabited by strange characters. Through outrageous musical numbers and flashy costumes, they encounter an unfamiliar and seductive new world as the master of the house, Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Shaidon Woods), is about to bring the muscular Rocky (Brendon Ainscow) to life.

Janet (McKenna Langdon) and Brad (Jared Brown) are out of their depth as they meet the residents of the castle. Photo by Ross Davidson.

This production is impeccably cast with a strong ensemble. Shaidon Woods delivers as the iconic Dr. Frank-N-Furter, commanding the room, oozing confidence, and feeding off the audience’s energy. We are also treated to charmingly eccentric performances from Riff-Raff (Aidan Coutts), Magenta (Jenn Marino), and Columbia (Sarah Dennison) as Frank's loyal and woefully unappreciated supporters. Eddie (Michael Heath), Frank’s former lover, appears briefly for the catchy “Hot Patootie, Bless My Soul,” but leaves a rocking impression. 

Eddie (Michael Heath) dips Columbia (Sarah Dennison) during "Hot Patootie." Photo by Ross Davidson.

Audiences are in for a wild ride as the plot moves at a breakneck pace. By the second act, Brad and Janet are on a surprising journey of sexual awakening sparked by encounters with Frank. The show’s content—still sensational today—was wildly transgressive when the play premiered in 1973, followed by the film in 1975.

Frank (Shaidon Woods) with his creation, Rocky (Brendon Ainscow). Photo by Ross Davidson.

“[Rocky] boldly explored themes of self-discovery and self-actualization long before these ideas were part of mainstream conversation,” director Mel Stewart says. “Through its wild humour, overt sexuality, and radical visibility, Rocky sent shockwaves through the 1970s—a burst of queer liberation that still resonates today.”

And resonate, it does. A devoted fan culture surrounds the show and its screenings, shadow casts, and staged productions. This year, the film celebrates its 50th anniversary, so it was the perfect choice for Infuse Productions’ inaugural show. The London community has clearly embraced it, and the energy of the Palace’s packed crowds is nothing short of celebratory. 

The cast of Rocky Horror does the Time Warp again! Photo by Ross Davidson.

Seeing Rocky Horror is such a unique experience that first-time viewers are often referred to as virgins. Other mountings of the show may include initiation rituals, but newbies can rest easy knowing they won’t be pointed out at the Palace. Infuse’s website includes detailed information so attendees know what to expect—a nice touch that reflects their aim of welcoming new fans into the fold.

This production makes it easy to participate in the live phenomenon that is Rocky Horror. Prop bags sold with tickets and at the door can provide guests with everything they need to participate in the action. A special magic is created as the crowd sways glowsticks when “there’s a light over at the Frankenstein place,” sends cards flying through the air during “I’m Going Home,” or snaps on their gloves with Frank.

Dr. Scott (Sam Shoebottom) is quickly caught up in the chaos. Photo by Ross Davidson.

A guide in the show program also outlines common audience callouts. Brad and Janet are often heckled, and it's nearly impossible to hear the pompous narrator (Jeff Werkmeister), who is booed every time he opens his mouth. It’s easy to catch on and holler along. Almost anything goes, with audience members shouting out lines as they think of them. 

These disruptions are all in good fun, but it’s easy to imagine how the unpredictability could become intimidating for actors. Delightfully, this cast takes everything in stride. They deliver strong performances despite the raucous audience and lean into the playfulness of the production. Every show is sure to be unique as they respond to what the audience offers.

Come early for a pre-show concert, featuring Betamaxx and members of the cast. Photo by Ross Davidson.

Far from your typical night at the theatre, seeing Rocky Horror at the Palace is an experience. From the preshow concert by the band Betamaxx (who accompany the musical live onstage from a corner of the castle) to the Time Warp final bows, the audience is invited to immerse themselves and abandon their inhibitions for a night. 

The cast and crew of The Rocky Horror Show. Photo by Ross Davidson.

By the time you read this, the few remaining tickets may have already been zapped to another galaxy. If not, then act fast and buy yours before The Rocky Horror Show closes on Nov. 2!