Broadway Revival of 'The Rocky Horror Show' Opens at Studio 54 with Luke Evans as Frank-N-Furter

A new Broadway production of 'The Rocky Horror Show' began preview performances on March 26 at Studio 54 in New York City. Directed by Sam Pinkleton, this revival marks the musical's return to Broadway after 24 years. The cast features Welsh actor Luke Evans in the central role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a pansexual alien scientist. Other principal performers include Juliette Lewis as Magenta, Rachel Dratch as the Narrator, Stephanie Hsu as Janet, Andrew Durand as Brad, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez as Columbia, and Harvey Guillén in dual roles as Eddie and Dr. Scott. The production originated as a stage show written by Richard O'Brien, first presented in 1973 at London's Royal Court Theatre. A 1975 film adaptation initially failed commercially but later gained a cult following through midnight screenings. The plot follows a conventional couple, Brad and Janet, who encounter the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter and his creations. Pinkleton describes his approach as embracing the show's existing legacy rather than attempting to modernize it fundamentally, acknowledging that some elements may feel dated by contemporary standards regarding consent and identity. He emphasizes the anthem 'Don't Dream It, Be It' as a guiding principle. The creative team includes costume designer David I. Reynoso, drawing inspiration from punk aesthetics and designers like Rick Owens. The production intentionally utilizes Studio 54's worn atmosphere to complement the show's do-it-yourself spirit. Several cast members cite personal connections to the material, with Lewis calling it her 'creative birthplace' and Guillén recalling it as an artistic and sexual awakening. The director anticipates active audience participation, a tradition for this work, and notes the cast's improvisational backgrounds will be assets.