ARTfactory Rooftop Productions is thrilled to present an audience favorite, The Rocky Horror Show. The show will be performed in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory starting September 20 and running through October 5.
Written by Richard O’Brien, the production combines a diverse blend of rock music with outrageous humor, and thrilling plot twists. The story follows newly engaged couple Brad and Janet who, after experiencing car trouble and a rainstorm, happen upon a mysterious castle owned by the eccentric Dr. Frank N. Furter. Here they uncover his bizarre world and even more freakishly bizarre entourage. What follows is a fantastic frenzy of seduction, intrigue, and outrageous antics.
With its debut in 1973, the 20th Century Fox film captivated audiences. Followed then by the stage version in 1975, the show continues to leave an indelible mark on pop culture. When asked about its popularity, cast member James Maxted, who plays Riff-Raff, shared his personal experience with the show, “My first time seeing the Rocky Horror Picture Show was my freshman year in college. I’ve always been a fan of musicals, rock and roll, and b sci-fi movies so this was right up my alley. Add in the insanely inappropriate responses and adlibs of the audience with the performers in front of the screen and I knew I loved it.” This is Maxted’s second time in the role, previously with Unquiet Theatre Company in 2013.
The Rocky Horror Show celebrates diversity, individuality, and the freedom to be yourself. Playing on that freedom, Director Kimberly Kemp’s vision for the production is unconventional, even by the show’s standards. Starting in the Caton Merchant Family Gallery on the ARTfactory’s first floor, audience members will be immersed in the first few scenes of the show before transitioning to the third-floor theater space where the production continues. From there, audiences can expect to be thrilled by an electrifying spectacle that promises to have them dancing in their seats.
For theatergoers looking to enhance their experience, ARTfactory is offering bundle packages and additional perks, for a fee, including a signature drink, a “Frankenfurter” hot dog, and a prop bag, complete with traditional Rocky Horror fan favorites, like a roll of toilet paper.
In addition to Maxted, the cast includes Zach Burgess, Megan Bently, Anastasia Hanchak, Talya Conroy, Muggs Leone, Patrick Bell, Zack Walsh, Richard Pollington, Sarah Allbrandt, Ahryel Tinker, Shelby Cody-Jones, Wyatt Underwood, Caroline Battle, and Chris Maulden.
Performances of The Rocky Horror Show will be held September 20 and 21 at 7:30 PM, September 27, 28, and October 5 at 7:30 and 10:30 PM, and October 4 at 10:30 PM. All performances will be in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory. Tickets may be purchased online at www.virginiaartfactory.org/tickets or by calling the ARTfactory at 703-330-2787. ARTfactory Rooftop Productions The Rocky Horror show is sponsored by The Rose Gaming Resort. Audiences, please note that the show contains adult content and is suited for mature audiences.
