“It’s a Dream Come True”: Rocky Horror Show Tour Brings Legacy Full Circle to Belfast
A touring production of The Rocky Horror Show is currently captivating audiences, with a special resonance for fans in Northern Ireland as the cast pays tribute to original star Patricia Quinn and welcomes local talent to the stage. The show, currently playing at the Grand Opera House in Belfast before moving to Dublin and Londonderry, is celebrating its enduring legacy and the excitement of a new generation embracing its iconic characters and music.
A Legacy Honored: Patricia Quinn and the Spirit of Magenta
The production carries a poignant connection to one of its original stars, Patricia Quinn, who originated the roles of Magenta and the Usherette in the 1973 stage premiere and subsequent film adaptation of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Natasha Hoeberigs, now embodying those same roles, expressed profound admiration for Quinn’s contribution. “Incredible people have come and gone through the show over the years, like the amazing Patricia Quinn,” Hoeberigs stated. “To step into the shoes of a role that she originated, it’s a blessing, it’s a dream come true.” Hoeberigs, who grew up watching Quinn’s performance in New Zealand, described it as “amazing.”
Fans have long advocated for a statue honoring Quinn’s contribution, particularly in her hometown of Belfast. Currently, a statue of fellow Rocky Horror character Riff Raff stands in Hamilton, New Zealand. Hoeberigs passionately believes Belfast deserves similar recognition. “I think we need to start a petition and I think everyone who is a fan of Rocky Horror needs to get on board with this and we must pay homage to Patricia Quinn and her Magenta,” she said. “Richard O’Brien has his statue in Hamilton in New Zealand and it would be so special to have one here in Belfast.”
Northern Irish Talent Takes Center Stage
The tour also marks a significant moment for Connor Carson, a performer originally from Killinchy in County Down, who is portraying the role of Brad Majors. Carson’s journey to the stage is particularly meaningful, representing a “full circle moment” for the rising star. “The first professional show I ever watched as a little kid was here in the Grand Opera House so it’s definitely a full circle moment to come back here and be playing one of the leads in Rocky Horror – it’s a pinch me moment,” Carson explained.
Having honed his skills in amateur productions in Belfast and Lisburn before training professionally and performing in London’s West End, Carson finds comfort in the enthusiastic reception from his home crowd. “It’s such an iconic show and people love it so much so it’s great to bring that to Belfast as well,” he said. He also acknowledged the added pressure of performing before family and friends, but ultimately expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of something that resonates so deeply with audiences.
The Enduring Appeal of The Rocky Horror Show
Since its debut, The Rocky Horror Show has cultivated a devoted cult following, drawn to its unique blend of science fiction, horror, and campy musical numbers. The story follows the misadventures of Brad Majors and Janet Weiss as they stumble upon the outlandish world of Frank-N-Furter and his peculiar household, complete with the “perfect man” Rocky and the enigmatic servants Riff Raff and Magenta. Central to the show’s enduring appeal is the Time Warp dance, a participatory staple that has become a cultural phenomenon.
Carson highlighted the joy of performing this iconic choreography, noting that “Doing the Time warp is an iconic piece of choreography, everyone has been doing at primary school discos since they were five years old.” The show’s ability to connect with audiences on a personal level is a key factor in its continued success. “It’s amazing to be part of something that means so much to people and that they can connect with. It’s really special,” Carson added.
The Rocky Horror Show continues its run at the Grand Opera House in Belfast before moving on to Dublin and the Millennium Forum in Londonderry, promising to deliver its signature blend of spectacle and audience engagement to fans across Ireland.
