Richard O’Brien will star as the infamous narrator in The Rocky Horror Show when his iconic musical plays a week of performances at London’s Playhouse Theatre this September.
The hugely popular production will play 11 performances at the West End venue from 11 to 19 September prior to a UK tour.
Featuring music, lyrics and a book by O’Brien, the cult hit’s London return will mark The Crystal Maze presenter’s first performance in the musical in the UK for more than 20 years.
Directed by Christopher Luscombe, The Rocky Horror Show takes inspiration from horror and science fiction movies to tell the story of a couple stranded on a stormy night who find shelter in the decidedly different home of a mad transvestite scientist revealing his latest creation.
As part of the show’s week-long run, a gala performance held in aid of Amnesty International on 17 September will be broadcast live to cinemas in the UK and Europe.
The special performance will feature celebrity guest appearances and will be screened from 18:45 GMT, with further screenings planned in countries including America, Australia and New Zealand later in the autumn.
Talking about returning to the production, O’Brien said: “I’m delighted to be returning to London, where Rocky started, and performing in the show after more than 20 years. It’s just fabulous that the world’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll musical will be beamed to many, many cinemas across the UK and Europe, via satellite. Everyone should prepare for a night of frolics and celebrations by joining us on the big screen!”
The Rocky Horror Show will open at the Playhouse Theatre following the current run of Robert Icke and Duncan Macmillan’s acclaimed adaptation of 1984, which closes on 5 September.