If nothing else, those sweet transvestites from Transexual, Transylvania know how to put on a show.

After taking over the Theatre Royal Bath, the audience were exposed to a terribly thrilling time.

Running for more than 40 years, having been continuously either on the stage or the silver screen, Rocky Horror has grown far beyond its roots as a campy B-movie pastiche, and is now a true cult phenomenon.

Indeed, the extent to which throwing rice, holding up lighters and throwing kitkats is now a part of the experience was showcased right at the front door, where we were subject to a bag-search. All potentially lethal paraphernalia safely disposed of, we entered the theatre to an enthusiastic assembly of bewigged Magentas, along with the usual sea of black lace lingerie.

The curtains opened with a bang, the initial blast of volume silencing the raucous pre-show chatter. Soon, the cool refrain of Science Fiction/Double Feature set the tone nicely for what was to follow.

With every song, every little audience interaction, the cast found their footing rapidly. Philip Franks made a particularly strong impression as the narrator. Riffing off the audience as well as any stand-up comedian, he livened up every scene considerably (and left a rather saucy surprise for the end).

Of course, no Rocky Horror production would be complete without the prima donna, the star attraction, Dr Frank-N-Furter. Liam Tamne positively sizzled as the seducer-in-chief, commanding every musical number, never leaving the audience in antici…pation for more.

An assured and energetic production, for young and old alike, this is a good time to come along and be part of the fun. This tale of strange aliens with a passion for muscle men and the kitsch of 50s Americana has entertained millions, and it clearly has no end in sight. 

By Sean Cameron

The show runs at the Theatre Royal Bath until November 20. 

You can also catch the show at the New Theatre Oxford from December 13 to 31. To book go to www.atgtickets.com/oxford.