Review: THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at The Ringwald Theatre is an Astounding and Wild Ride!

It's astounding that this is the first time The Ringwald Theatre has tackled The Rocky Horror Show because they do it so masterfully, yet audiences expect nothing less from the Ferndale theatre known for pushing boundaries. Their take on Rocky Horror is quite the experience that transports the audience on a fun and wild ride.

If one aspect above all else should convince anyone to come see The Rocky Horror Show at The Ringwald Theatre it is Suzan M. Jacokes in the role of Dr. Frank N. Furter. Jacokes is exceptional throughout the entire show. The choice in casting a woman in the role typically played by a man who is dressed as a woman was a great decision by the director, Joe Bailey, giving the show that typical Ringwald twist. Jacokes version of "Sweet Transvestite" was fierce and powerful and her "I'm Going Home" was filled with such emotion. From the moment she steps on stage, she was memorizing and commands full attention. She would honestly be reason enough to return to the show again as her performance was that good.

Another fantastic reason is that Joe Bailey has put together a wonderful cast for this production of Rocky Horror. They are a dynamite group that works together flawlessly to put on a show from start to finish that keeps the audience engaged and entertained even before the lights go down. Jordan Gagnon plays the role of Janet Weiss. She is just the perfect all-around Janet, innocent and sweet, until she is not, with a gorgeous singing voice. Richard Payton plays the roles of Riff Raff. Payton's take on the role is different than any other version this reviewer has experienced. His Riff Raff is alluring, creepy, and mischievous; sometimes making the audience laugh and other times making the audience uncomfortable, but in the end, they cannot help but like him and odd connection he has with his sister. Nick Yocum plays the of Rocky. His song "Sword of Damocles" is done well, but he really shines with his acting throughout the entire show that is quirky and endearing. One quick mention should be made of Manning Goldman who plays Phantom 2 and is the Dance Captain as he is just outstanding throughout the entire show due to his charisma whenever he is on stage. The rest of the cast is rounded out by Dyan Bailey (Magenta), Jacob Boida (Phantom 1), Tess Hannah (Phantom 3 / Columbia Understudy), Casey S. Hibbert (Narrator), Kevin Kaminski (Brad Majors), Ryan Kayla (Phantom 4), Nicole Pascaretta (Columbia), and Brandy Joe Plambeck (Eddie / Dr. Scott).

Joe Bailey directed a fierce production of The Rocky Horror Show at The Ringwald Theatre. It is one that fans of the movie and fans of the stage show will equally enjoy. The cast is on stage having a good time and they bring the fun out into the audience encouraging involvement. And don't worry The Ringwald theatre is prepared with Goodie Bags for $5 with everything you need to be involved in the show whether it is your first time or you are a veteran Rocky Horror fan. Make an effort to catch The Rocky Horror Show before it time warps away from The Ringwald Theatre!

The theatre encourages dressing up for shows, but please no outside props. For more information, please visit the theatre's website.

The Rocky Horror Show is currently running until October 30th at The Ringwald Theatre in Ferndale. For more information or tickets, please visit www.TheRingwald.com.

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