“Well it’s a jump to the left, then a step to the right… Let’s do the time warp again.”
The University Players of WCU are excited and ready to enthrall this week as they shake it up with the “Time Warp” and introduce us to the comedy and intrigue of the one and only, perhaps mad, “Transsexual Transylvanian Transvestite” named Frank-n-Furter. The UP is prepared to unfurl its version of The Rocky Horror Show.
All performances will be in Hoey Auditorium beginning at 7:30 pm, opening on Tuesday, February 27, and running through Saturday, March 3. Richard Beam, associate professor of the Communication and Theatre Arts department, is the director of the show.
But are audiences ready for a sci-fi rock-n-roll show that promises to deliver music, dance, and most importantly, fun to take them out for an evening? It appears that many are anticipating this upcoming cult classic show featuring WCU’s own talented performers as they create the magic of RHS.
With such a tinge of excitement in the air, it’s no wonder that students are curious about what exactly is going on. The movie version of this play is probably the more recognized production, so it is important to bear in mind that WCU’s performance will be based on the original stage script, which contains a variety of differences. That being said, one must also be aware that the RHS is also known as the midnight movie that has inspired people to dress up as the film’s main characters and sing along with the famous soundtrack. Written by Richard O’Brien, the play is a satire of the “B-grade” science-fiction horror movies of the 1950s.
The musical follows the innocent, newly-engaged couple, Brad (Daniel Weger) and Janet (Emily Wood), as they travel one rainy evening and develop some ill-timed car troubles. Seeking assistance, they make their way to the home of Frank-n-Furter (Kevin Billings) and an equally intriguing group of people who share the scientist’s home. Brad and Janet are greeted by the foreboding Riff-Raff (Bobbi Baker) and ask to use the phone to call for help. But Riff-Raff is just the beginning of the stream of odd people that Brad and Janet will encounter. They also find that this strange ensemble is more than happy to welcome the handsome young pair into their house, and indeed, they offer a much more exciting opportunity than merely using the phone.
But that’s an adventure that will be unfolded and created for the awaiting audience. Those who plan to attend should remember that while there is no nudity or overly harsh language in the show, the adult humor and sexual content is probably not appropriate for audience members younger than high school age.
While checking in on the performers’ progress last week, it was apparent that everyone is focused and energized to rock the stage and audience. Actors and actresses are ready to give it all they can and provide an eyeful of entertainment. In addition to the visual drama, a five-piece rock-n-roll band will accompany the cast.
One of the performers’ main concerns is to avoid being the target of thrown objects. Audience participants need to be concerned for the safety of the performers as well as for that of their fellow audience members.
Other alluring cast members include Serenity Richards as lusty Magenta, Courtney Becknell as charming Columbia and Damien Marts as the physically buff Rocky. Also appearing are Josh Ellis as Eddie, Heather Smidt as Dr. Scott, and Daniel Strouble as the narrator. Additional support is provided by the phantoms, including Scott Needham, Courtney Tyson, Cherie Vass, and Crystal Waters.
Tickets are $5 for students, $12.50 for seniors, and $15 for adults. For more information, please contact (828) 227-7491.
