A cult classic musical will come to life at Eastern Kentucky University Feb. 22-26 when EKU Theatre presents “The Rocky Horror Show.”
The musical tells the story of newly engaged Brad and Janet seeking refuge from a storm in the home of a mad transvestite scientist. When the scientist unveils his new creation, an artificially made, fully grown, dark-haired, tan, physically perfect muscle man named Rocky, Brad and Janet find more adventure than they expected.
EKU Theatre alumnus Wes Nelson, artistic director of Kentucky Conservatory Theatre in Lexington, is directing the musical and “infusing it with rock star glam,” said Alana Ghent, program director for EKU Theatre. The creative team is joined by Blackbird Dance Theatre Artistic Director Jenny Fitzpatrick as choreographer, and alumna Jessica Greene as musical director.
“Working alongside professionals from the community is a fantastic opportunity for our students,” Ghent said. “It challenges them, and they step up! Many of our students find their first professional work with the guest artists we bring on campus. We’re proud of their work and excited that their on-campus experience is preparing them to be competitive.”
As any “Rocky Horror” fan knows, the show traditionally involves audience participation, and the EKU Theatre Honor Society, Alpha Psi Omega, will be selling participation kits prior to every performance.
The Gifford Theatre curtain rises at 8 p.m. nightly Feb. 22-25 and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 26. Tickets, $6 for students and senior citizens and $8 for others, may be purchased now online at www.theatre.eku.edu, and are available at the Gifford Box Office in the Campbell Building Feb. 20-24 from noon to 4 p.m. daily and one hour before each show. Telephone reservations are not accepted. Credit cards are accepted online and at the door, as well as cash or check at the door.
“People will need to arrive early to get tickets just before the show or purchase ahead of time to guarantee a seat,” Ghent said.
The show contains adult content and is suggested for mature audiences only.
The Campbell Building is located on Crabbe Street just off Lancaster Avenue on the northern periphery of the Richmond campus.
An EKU Theatre alumni event, “Rocky Reunion,” will be held prior to the Saturday night performance. For information about the reunion, call 859-622-1315.