Do The Time Warp Again
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Published: October 2, 2008
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Some kids dream of being firefighters and doctors when they grow up. And some, such as actor Jesse Luttrell, dream of wearing fishnets and stilettos.
Luttrell transforms into the notorious "sweet transvestite," Dr. Frank-N-Furter, during "The Rocky Horror Show," the classic horror rock 'n' roll musical playing through Nov. 1 in the Jaeb Theater at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.
The 25-year-old actor, who lives in New York City, says he was hooked on "Rocky Horror" after watching the film version on television as a teen.
"I saw Tim Curry and said, 'I want to do that.' I watched the whole thing and loved it," Luttrell says. "I have to do my own interpretation of the character and at the same time pay tribute to Tim Curry. It's a huge responsibility."
Performing in the production is an exciting release of creative energy, explains Luttrell, but "Rocky Horror" has its own set of challenges — such as the audience talking back or yelling at you.
"People are very passionate about 'Rocky Horror,' and it's very intimidating. I'm nervous, but at the same time I have to do my job," he says. "But to put your name in the category of people who have played that role is humbling."
"Rocky Horror" tells the story of two preppy sweethearts who find themselves at the mercy of an eccentric transvestite doctor. Over the years, the movie became a phenomenon complete with a cult following.
"Its great camp, and you got to love good camp," says Karla Hartley, who co-directs the locally produced show with Rick Criswell. "And, it's fun to do. We're having a great time, the cast is swell, and there is nothing like live theater."
The magic began onstage in London in 1973. Two years later, the film version, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," hit theaters.
The musical follows Brad and Janet, who seek refuge at the home of Dr. Frank-N-Furter after getting lost on a road trip. The eye-popping trip features timeless songs such as "Sweet Transvestite," "Dammit Janet" and "Time Warp."
"Rocky Horror" is more than fishnets and trannies — there's a message.
"It's a little allegory on discrimination," says Hartley, who, in addition to directing, also designed the set. "It's really about the ability to accept those who are different and out there more than yourself."
The film flopped when first released but gained popularity at midnight showings, where fans would dress as their favorite characters, sing along to the songs and bring props — including water guns and umbrellas — from home to match film scenes, a custom that continues to this day.
The Tampa production features late-night shows with "audience participation" on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the run. Show attendees can compete for seats onstage and purchase special $15.50 tickets by arriving in costume one hour before curtain.
Although theatergoers can't bring their own accouterments, audience participation is still encouraged at the late-night showings, where prop bags will be on sale for $5. The prop bag includes bubbles (instead of rice for the wedding in the play), a boa and more.
"Who knows what will happen? It's live theater. You never know," Luttrell says. "That's the thing: When you come and see it onstage, that performance is for you."
Reporter Sarah Hoye can be reached at (813) 259-7832 or shoye@tampatrib.com.
ON STAGE
The Rocky Horror Show
WHEN: Through Nov. 1; shows at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; audience participation performances at 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
WHERE: Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Jaeb Theater, 1010 MacInnes Place, Tampa
TICKETS: $31.50; box office, (813) 229-7827
Did You Know?
What began as an experimental stage production by English writer-actor Richard O'Brien has become one of the most well-known films of all time. Stay in the know with these facts about the "Rocky Horror" phenomenon:
"The Rocky Horror Picture Show" was a box-office flop when first released in theaters in 1975.
It has since grossed more than $150 million.
It's considered the longest-running film in history.
The movie stars Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Tim Curry, Meat Loaf and Patricia Quinn.
Mick Jagger wanted to play Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the film version.
Sarandon caught pneumonia after they shot the pool scene.
Sources: Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, The Rocky Horror Picture Show: The Official Fan Site!, The Internet Movie Database
