The Rocky Horror Show at The Storyhouse Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Kate M
Ridiculous! Outrageous! Perfection!
This performance of the Rocky Horror Show lived up to absolutely everything I expected of it. The production had me on my feet, singing and dancing, and laughing out loud from start to finish.
Usually, when writing a review, I’d offer a summary of the plot. This isn’t the way The Rocky Horror Show works! Suffice to say that Brad and Janet (newly engaged), get a flat tyre on a rainy night, and have to call upon the inhabitants of the Frankenstein castle for help. Here they meet Frank N Furter, and things become more and more chaotic and debauched from there. From the moment he steps onto the stage Stephen Webb, who plays Frank, showcases charisma, confidence and charm. Perfectly embodying the much loved character of stage and screen. Frank’s entrance is one of my favourite moments of the show. Itis so unexpected by poor Brad and Janet, they don’t know where to look. But Frank knows. And he’s not shy.
Brad and Janet are played by James Bisp and Haley Flaherty. They both beautifully portray the naivety, shock and moral outrage of the happy couple. Their transition throughout act two was a delight to watch. I thoroughly enjoyed all the songs in the production, but special mention to these two who had the most spectacular voices. I shall enthusiastically keep an eye out for further productions from either of them, as I would like to hear more of what they can do. My favourite scene, which had me in hysterics, was the first scene of act two. The physical comedy, the innuendo, the one liners. Brilliant.
All actors were superb. Every note was hit. Every line was delivered with wit and emotion. It really felt like you were being swept up into the castle alongside Brad and Janet. Helping to envelope us in the story, the set pieces were very impressive. Grand enough to believe we were inside a castle! The final set was very cleverly done, too.
One of the things which sets theatre above film and TV, is the interaction with the audience. And here is where Rocky Horror is once again exceptional. I was in stitches at some of the back and forth between hecklers and performers. If you haven’t seen Rocky Horror before, you might want to familiarise yourself with some of the “call outs”. Imagine a pantomime that’s been rated 18, and you’re not far off. But what was different about this performance, was that the cast actually interacted with these call outs with some witty replies of their own. Including (I always like to see these) personalised references to the local area, and cheeky nods to current affairs. Jackie Clune, who plays the narrator, was exceptional and very quick with a witty remark. Her expressions and her comedic timings had me laughing out loud.
I am a huge fan of the Storyhouse Theatre. The theatre space itself is a such a good size. It’s large enough to create a lively atmosphere, yet compact enough that every seat available will get a great view, and everyone feels a part of the experience. Beyond the auditorium, the Storyhouse is a wonderfully accessible and inclusive communal space, with all the amenities you could want. A well-stocked bar serving a wide selection of food and drinks, numerous tables and access to power sockets for people using laptops, even a library!
My final thoughts on the performance:
Absolutely electric. Out of this world. Amazing song and dance routines, clever comedy, silly comedy, everything you could want. I left the theatre wanting to gather a group of friends, rebook tickets, dress up, and hit the town after. I didn’t want the night to end; I was so hyped from the show! I’d thoroughly recommend you gather your craziest group of friends, and come along to watch The Rocky Horror show before it leaves Chester.
Rating: 5/5
Please note that the Rocky Horror contains adult themes.
I’d go as far as to say it’s literally entirely adult themes. The age recommendation is 12 plus, but honestly, you don’t want to be watching this with kids.
Rocky Horror is showing at Storyhouse Chester from 30th June to 4th July 2026 Ticket prices from £26.70 for members, £29.50 for non-members.
For more information or to book tickets visit www.storyhouse.com
Storyhouse, Hunter Street, Chester, CH1 2AR | 01244 409113
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