Gippsland audiences are preparing to “do the Time Warp again” when Maffra Dramatic Society brings The Rocky Horror Show to The Wedge from March 20 to 29.
More than half a century after it was transformed into the 1975 cult film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the flamboyant rock musical written by Richard O’Brien continues to captivate audiences with its celebration of individuality, self-expression and unabashed theatricality.
The film, starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Meat Loaf, became a global phenomenon through late-night screenings and audience participation – traditions that still define the show today.
For Traralgon performer Josh Hill, stepping into the stilettos of Dr Frank-N-Furter marks the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.
Josh said he had always wanted to perform two roles in musical theatre – the bloodthirsty plant Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors and Frank-N-Furter.
Last year he achieved the first, voicing Audrey II in Traralgon.
Now he takes centre stage as the “sweet transvestite” from Transylvania.
“And you’ll never guess, my second-favourite role is Frank-N-Furter – and I get to do that,” he said.
“I’ll retire after this,” he joked.
A seasoned musician who performed in Melbourne band Circus during the MySpace era before later joining Latrobe Valley group Bound South, Josh is no stranger to live performance.
However, the role has required mastering new skills – notably performing in high heels.
“As a middle-aged man, I wasn’t very strong in heels to begin with, but I’ve made a commitment – I’ve worn them twice a week at every rehearsal,” he said.
He is mindful of the character’s status as a queer icon and the importance the show holds for many in the LGBTQI community.
“It’s wonderful that so many people identify with this show and with Frank,” he said.
“This is such a wonderful production – everyone is having a great time.”
Dargo-based firefighter Benji Dixon has also been balancing a demanding summer with rehearsals. While deployed to the Wonnangatta-Dargo complex fire – which burnt nearly 50,000 hectares in the Gippsland High Country – he spent his spare time preparing for the role of Riff Raff.
“It’s been full gas ever since the fire took off on January 9,” Benji said.
Despite the pressures of emergency response work, he rehearsed twice a week, crediting his workplace for supporting his involvement in the production.
“Work’s been really accommodating with me having the opportunity to come down when things have quietened down to get to rehearsals,” he said.
The role holds personal significance. Benji and O’Brien share a hometown – Tauranga, New Zealand – and O’Brien originally portrayed Riff Raff in both the stage production and film.
“It’s a role I’ve wanted to do since I was a little kid,” Benji said.
The show marks his first theatre production in Gippsland since relocating from Horsham, where he previously appeared in Rock of Ages.
At the helm is Haylee Treasure, taking on her first directing role after years of involvement in theatre, including with Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company.
A lighting technician by trade, Haylee said she has loved Rocky Horror since childhood.
“I remember doing the Time Warp at primary school camp – which is probably too young,” she laughed.
She believes the show’s message remains as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.
“It’s such an amazing show about individuality and being different,” she said.
One lyric in particular guides her approach to directing: “Don’t dream it. Be it.”
“I keep telling the cast – don’t dream it, be it. There’s no point just dreaming about something. If you want to do it, just do it.”
Haylee said she hopes audiences leave the theatre not only entertained, but inspired.
“I want audiences leaving The Wedge feeling inspired, feeling a little bit different, and maybe feeling brave enough to step into their own spotlight. Because that’s what Rocky Horror does.”
The production features a cast and crew of more than 20 performers from across the region.
Bairnsdale doctor Will Hardy takes on the role of Brad Majors, alongside Brooke Crabtree as Janet Weiss.
The show features iconic numbers including Time Warp, Sweet Transvestite, Hot Patootie and Floor Show.
A special Creature of the Night Gala will be held on Thursday, March 26, encouraging audiences to dress up, participate in the show and enjoy a photo booth and Best Dressed Costume Competition – in true Rocky Horror tradition.
With its blend of camp, rock ‘n’ roll and celebration of self-expression, the society’s production promises two weeks of high-energy entertainment.
The Rocky Horror Show runs from March 20–29 at The Wedge in Sale.
Tickets are available from The Wedge box office or via its website.
