What in the world is happening at the Arts Center of Kershaw County, you might ask?
Oh, nothing much. Just a little-known production that surely none of you has ever heard of: The Rocky Horror Show!
Just in time for spooky season, this cult classic has made itself at home on the Camden stage with its deliciously twisted blend of Frankenstein, Star Trek, and Fifty Shades of Grey, topped off with music, dancing, and a healthy disregard for good manners.
Maybe there are a few things you haven’t done lately. Heard a live band. Gotten dressed up to see a show. Had a glass of wine in a theater lobby. Well, you’re in luck! You can do all three through October 31 when you see The Rocky Horror Show at the Arts Center of Kershaw County.
Director Bakari Lebby’s aesthetic stamp is visible in the casting and the use of video to punctuate key moments in this musical with music, books, and lyrics by Richard O’Brien. The cast is clearly having fun, and that energy is delightful. Particular kudos go to Catherine Hunsinger as Columbia, Aric Zion as Dr. Scott, Lee O. Smith as the Criminologist, Shelby Sessler as a surprise Riff Raff, and Michael Conway as a Phantom whose performances really bring their characters to life. Applause to Tyler Dee as Dr. Frank N. Furter, Brandon Campbell as Rocky, Carley Kersey as Janet Weiss and Justin Munn as Brad Majors. Rounding out the exciting cast were Alexis Sherr, Matt Williams, Taylor Woodie, Sam Chamberlain, and Kim Scott.
Catherine Hunsinger at the Rocky Horror Show Opening Night Prom
With music direction by Ike Pitts, the live band is stellar. Kudos also to choreographer Erin Bailey for helping bring the production together.
Although of one cloth, The Rocky Horror Show and The Rocky Horror Picture Show are two unique projects. The musical, The Rocky Horror Show that you’ll be seeing in Camden, premiered in London in 1973 and went on to run for 2960 performances there, and has been produced across six continents, in 20 different languages, for more than 30 million audience members across the world. In 1973, The Rocky Horror Show produced and directed by Jim Jarman won the Standard Theatre Award for Best Musical. The 1975 musical/horror/comedy film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show was based on the original 1973 musical stage production and starred Tim Curry in his film debut. Curry had originated the role of D. Frank-N-Furter in the stage production .
Brad and Janet played by Carley Kersey and Justin Munn
Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Rocky Horror Show or a curious newcomer wondering what all the fuss is about, this is an opportunity to experience one of theater’s most delightfully outrageous traditions. It’s glam rock meets American B-movie camp with a Halloween twist!
The Rocky Horror Show runs through October 31 at the Arts Center of Kershaw County. Tickets are available at artscenterkc.org/ac/the-rocky-horror-show/.
It’s not just a musical—it’s an experience!
All photos by Perry McLeod.