Caroline Rakestraw, Dusty Ray Bottoms, and Tommy Sanders Photo courtesy of The Carnegie

The Rocky Horror Show debuted onstage in 1973. Its film adaptation, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, gained cult status and continues its popularity, especially this time of year. A tribute to science fiction and B horror movies, the show follows a newly engaged couple seeking shelter from a storm. They arrive at the home of a transvestite mad scientist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, who is in the midst of unveiling his newest creation, Rocky, a Frankenstein-style monster in the form of a muscle man.

The book and score are by Richard O'Brien. The book is a campy romp emphasizing sexual fluidity and freedom, and eschewing societal norms (of then or now). The story has several underdeveloped plot points and lacks sufficient backstory in spots, but it doesn't really matter–it's all about fun and celebrating the counterculture themes and antics onstage. Narration is also used to provide some connecting tissue to clarify the tale. The score features well-known songs such as "Sweet Transvestite," "Time Warp," "Hot Patootie," and "I'm Going Home." Many numbers are pastiche of the late 1950s / early 1960s and highly melodic, including several in the doo-wop style, while others capture the glam rock sound of the 1970s. There are many not-so-subtle sexual themes, so best to leave the children at home for this piece.

Director/choreographer Eric Byrd uses the small performance space at The Carnegie well–with frequent use of the aisles and front of stage area. He provides well-suited blocking, smooth transitions, and an apt campy tone. It's a smart choice to make audience participation bags available for purchase for those who want to join in, as happens with the film showings. Byrd's dances are likewise are fitting and lively. Steve Goers leads a fine-sounding five-piece band.

The cast is a mix of seasoned professionals, local talent, and area collegiate performers (both current and recent grads). Dusty Ray Bottoms from "Ru Paul's Drag Race" brings appropriate over-the-top glam, fine singing, and first-rate stage presence as Frank-N-Furter. Caroline Rakestraw (Janet) and Tommy Sanders (Brad) capture the naïve, goody-two-shoes essence of the characters and both sing very well. Sam Evans (Magenta) and Kyle Taylor (Riff Raff) are wacky and weird as expected, and Savannah Slaby makes the most of a character that could be annoying in a lesser performer's hands. Sean Miller-Jones is a hoot as Eddie and Dr. Scott, and Ethan Kuchta has both the chiseled physique and strong vocals needed for Rocky. Pam Kravetz might need a few performances under her belt as Narrator to find the ideal pacing for her important contribution. The ensemble displays plenty of talent and are game for the crazy pre-show festivities as erotic ushers.

Tyler Gabbard's handsome scenic design skillfully incorporates videos with smaller set pieces and attractive art deco decorations for the creepy mansion. The lighting by Julie Cowger produces several very suitable effects and provides well-timed bursts of light and blackouts. The costumes by Jeff Shearer are humorous and honor the well-known film outfits audiences have come to love.

While the movie version of Rocky Horror is popular this time of year, with its midnight showings, performers in front of the screen acting out the show, and wild audience participation, seeing triple-threat performers present the piece full-out is something special. For the second year in a row, Theatre at The Carnegie supplies a strongly staged and well-performed production worthy of audience shoutouts and confetti.

The Rocky Horror Show runs through November 2, 2025, at The Carnegie, 1028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. For tickets and information, please call 859)-957-1940 or visit thecarnegie.com.