Most students at Grand Valley State University were not even born when Richard O'Brian's rock'n'roll musical, "The Rocky Horror Show," first hit the stage more than 30 years ago. That is one of the very reasons it was selected for the university's spring production.
Performances of the gender-bending spoof of sci-fi B-movies, a sexy cult classic, are planned for March 23, 24, 29, 30, 31 at 7:30 p.m., a special performance on March 30 at midnight, and matinees March 25, and April 1 at 2 p.m. All performances are at the Louis Armstrong Theatre in the Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus. Tickets are $12 general admission, $10 faculty/staff/alumni/seniors, and $6 students. For more information call the LAT Box Office at (616) 331-2300. Tickets are also available, with a service fee, through any Star Tickets Plus outlet.
"This production is a wonderful chance to be part of something unlike anything else these students have done," said Director Ian Borden. "It should be an absolute joy for both the cast and the audience. Come do the Time Warp again, or discover for the first time what all the hype is about."
The campy plot follows the escapades of young innocents, Janet and Brad, as they stumble upon the mad 'doctor' Frank N. Furter, a transvestite from the planet Transexual in the galaxy of Transylvania.
This production contains strong language and content intended for an adult audience. Full participation by audience members is "allowed, encouraged and expected," said Borden. "That includes costumes, singing and dancing."
The show is a collaboration between Grand Valley's theatre and dance programs and the music department, with musical direction by Brian Asher Alhadeff and choreography by Lisa Catrett-Belrose. The role of Dr. Frank N. Furter is played by Grand Rapids actor Stephen Grzybowski. Students Megan Johnson and Ben Green are cast as Janet and Brad.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITY: With advance notice, media may attend dress rehearsals on March 20-22. For more information contact Ian Borden at (616) 331-8076. Promotional photos are available from GVSU News and Information Services by calling (616) 331-2221.
