The Rocky Horror Show by Richard O'Brien

It is a fairytale – we even like the nasty characters, we love the Cruella De Vil kind of character, Frank N Furter. It’s not rocket science as far as narrative is concerned – Brad and Janet are a couple that we kind of recognise as Adam and Eve or Romeo and Juliet, like a stereotypical couple – we can all relate to them. It’s very inclusive, it’s very easy to watch. Why do you think Rocky Horror is still so popular? Don’t get these lofty ideas.’ As it says in the show, “Don’t dream it, be it.” Everybody else said, ‘Be careful, get a proper job, get your degree as a plumber. A lot of people will try and stop you achieving those dreams but the only real person who can stop you is yourself.’ I was young and he was old and it was the first time a grown-up had ever said anything so joyous to me, so wonderfully liberating. I remember a director once told me, ‘There’s only one thing you should do in your life, Richard, and that’s realise your dreams.

I’m just so grateful that I’ve been part of something that has so uniquely left its mark. I’ve never done anything for back-slapping purposes, to make myself feel elevated in any kind of way. I hope what I’ve done professionally on stage has entertained and made people feel a little bit better when they leave the theatre.

How does it feel to see the incredible success the Rocky Horror Show has had?

The Rocky Horror Show is coming to The Princess Theatre, Torquay 16th – 21st January 2023 For More Information and to book tickets for the show Richard O’Brien Q&A

The Rocky Horror Show by Richard O'Brien