Thrills, fun and naughtiness are in abundance in Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show which takes to the stage at Stoke's Regent Theatre this week. 

A production like no other, the show is sexiness and sassiness all wrapped up in a creepy and dynamic fun-filled package of musical shenanigans and fabulous antics.

Not for the feint hearted, Rocky Horror... tells the story of a hapless young couple, Brad and Janet, played by Connor Carson and Lauren Chia with innocent and goofy charm. When their car breaks down on route to see their former professor, Brad and Janet find themselves needing assistance from the inhabitants of a foreboding castle. This is where the fun begins... 

Welcomed by a very creepy manservant called Riff Raff - played by Job Greuter, they are ushered into a house of debauchery where indulgence in the carnal arts is the norm. They are soon indoctrinated into the pleasures of the flesh by an array of raunchy creatives who reside there.

The enigmatic and exuberant Frank N Furter - played powerfully and with abundant zest by Adam Strong (who incidentally looks magnificent in a basque and stockings), soon ensures that the innocent Brad and Janet are given his sole attention - and a night they will never forget... 

The Rocky cast are dynamic in their roles. Natasha Hoeberigs who plays Magenta and the usherette is beautiful and vibrant, whilst Jamie-Lee Zanoncelli sparkles as Columbia. The audience also loved the creation of Rocky, a mini Mr Universe who has the body of Adonis and a sweet and wonderfully subtle comedic side to his character.

The narrator is key to the show and Motherland actress Jackie Clune fulfills the role perfectly. Clune is dry, acerbic and very entertaining with a crisp wit which engages the audience.

The staging is wonderfully atmospheric and glitzy, and the costumes are fabulous. Many of the audience dressed for the occasion in their best gothic and sexy attire - definitely a show where the participation of the theatre goer makes the production come alive.  The musical score is also memorable with classics Sweet Transvestite, Dammit Janet, and of course, Time Warp.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, The Rocky Horror Show provides an evening of unbridled sassiness and feisty entertainment.

Five stars

Reviewed by Carol Lovatt at The Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, on Tuesday 6 May. The Rocky Horror Show continues at the venue until Saturday 10 May.