Prepare to Time Warp your world: ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ set to thrill Hilberry Gateway

Wayne State University Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance students rehearse the upcoming production of Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror Show," which premieres Oct. 27 at the Hilberry Gateway.

Red lipstick. Fishnets. Ribald language.

When one thinks about “The Rocky Horror Show,” these are some of the images that come to mind. And the upcoming production of Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror Show” by Wayne State University’s Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance will pay homage to this. But with some unexpected twists for the audience, as well.

Featuring a talented cast of actors and musicians, this production of "The Rocky Horror Show" is set to deliver a high-energy, immersive experience that will have audiences dancing in the aisles. The show will be directed by Joe Bailey, artistic director of the Ringwald Theatre in Ferndale, with assistant and music direction being provided by Rachael L. Rose.

“I am so thrilled to be able to work on ‘Rocky Horror’ again and to build this production with a new generation. Honoring the queer sensibility that has always been there while mixing up the iconography appeals so hard to my aesthetic,” Bailey said. “And to be blessed with this remarkable creative team and cast is just the icing on the cake or should I say lipstick on the lips.”

After captivating audiences for over four decades, "The Rocky Horror Show" continues to be a timeless cult classic that defies convention and embraces the strange and unusual. With its unforgettable music, wild characters, and outrageous plot, it has become a beloved institution in the world of theatre, inspiring generations of fans to embrace their inner misfit and celebrate their unique quirks.

“I'm energized for this rebirth of Rocky Horror,” Rose said. “It's been around for so much of my life and, obviously, is a cult classic, but I'm very excited for everyone to see this gorgeous piece of art here at Wayne State!”

Audience participation has always been a hallmark of "The Rocky Horror Show," and this production is no exception. Join the fun at the 11:59 p.m. show on Oct. 28, where audiences will be provided with props to use during the performance as an homage to the many shadow cast productions of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Be prepared to shout your favorite callbacks, don your most outrageous costumes, and join the cast (from your seat) in the Time Warp dance.

Featuring a talented cast of Wayne State actors and musicians, seen here during rehearsal, "The Rocky Horror Show" is set to deliver a high-energy, immersive experience that will have audiences dancing in the aisles.

"The Rocky Horror Show" is a musical that celebrates diversity, individuality, and the freedom to be yourself. It's a raucous, riotous, and rebellious experience that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a first-time attendee, you're in for a night of laughter, music, and unapologetic fun. Don't miss your chance to experience this unforgettable journey into the strange and fabulous.

Performance details:

  • Dates: Oct. 27 through Nov. 12
  • Venue: Hilberry Gateway
  • Tickets: Tickets are available for purchase at theatreanddance.wayne.edu/onstage or by calling 313-577-2972.

Get ready to let your freak flag fly as "The Rocky Horror Show" takes the stage once more. Join in for a night of absolute pleasure, and remember: "Don't dream it, be it!"

For more information, interview requests, or press passes, please contact:

Brandon Graves
theatremgmt@wayne.edu
313-577-3010

About Theatre and Dance at Wayne

Theatre and Dance at Wayne is the producing entity of the Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance, a department within the College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts at Wayne State University. The department offers undergraduate and graduate programs in theatre and dance, including a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre; Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an emphasis in either Performance, Design and Technology, or Stage Management; Bachelor of Science in Dance; Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance; Master of Fine Arts in Acting, Set Design, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Stage Management, and Theatre Management; Master of Arts in Teaching Artistry; and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration. Minors are available in Africana Theatre and Dance; Theatre Design and Technology, Theatre, Theatre Management, Dance, Community, and Studio Dance. Additional information on academic programs can be found at theatreanddance.wayne.edu.

About Wayne State University

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students. Through its multidisciplinary approach to research and education and its ongoing collaboration with government, industry, and other institutions, the university seeks to enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life in the city of Detroit, the state of Michigan, and throughout the world. For more information about Wayne State University, visit wayne.edu.

← Back to listing