Rocky Horror' is over the top with glam rock

Theatergoers will be transported from Cohen Auditorium to the late 1970s world of glam-rock at this weekend's production of Torn Ticket II's (TTII) "Rocky Horror Show."

The rock-influenced musical is the stylish and fun story of a clean cut young couple, played by sophomores Greg Fujita and Julia Arazi, who stumble into the lair of a transvestite mad scientist. They quickly become embroiled in the sordid goings on at the mansion.

Audiences may already be familiar with the "Rocky Horror Show" from the 1975 movie starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, and Barry Bostwick. The film has become a cult favorite, but TTII's production, though it shares many elements with the movie, is unique and highly entertaining in its own right.

Director Jennifer Gerson, her production staff, and the cast have succeeded in making the show their own by creating a highly stylized rock and roll universe in which the story takes place. This sensibility is reflected in all aspects of the production.

"This is a show that's a love letter to rock and roll more than anything," Gerson said. The set, which is reminiscent of last semester's stylized "Dr Faustus," recalls a punkish, glam rock night club.

The costumes are similarly inspired and "reflect the period musically by mimicking the visual construction of era stars," Gerson said. Sophomore costume designer Heather Tomarkin demands attention in her designs as cast members (both male and female) are clad glittery wigs, corsets, fishnets and high heels.

Though glitter and hairspray abound, the show's rock and roll influence isn't limited to the visual element. The pit is more like a rock and roll band than a traditional musical orchestra, and senior Tim Nelson leads the band as the production's musical director.

Although the show is more rock influenced than most musical theater productions, like any good spectacle, "Rocky" is saturated with dancing. The show's team of senior choreographers, made up by Daphne McCurdy, Meghan Hammer, and Kelani Hawkes, decided to stick with the production's glam-inspired aesthetic theme that is reflected in the over-the-top costumes. As such, much of the movement in the dances is heavily influenced by early '80s rock groups such as Blondie and David Bowie.

The show's choreography, which is certain to be one of the production's most enjoyable aspects, posed some unique challenges. "I learned to dance in three and a half inch gold sparkly heels," junior Jackie Mantica said, who plays a phantom in the show. The cast has been rehearsing since the beginning of the semester and has become remarkably accustomed to the physical challenges presented by dancing in such spectacular costumes.

The show's unique element of audience participation is one of "Rocky's" highlights. At various intervals during the script, theatergoers are encouraged to interact with the characters and action on stage. The nature of the show encourages the audience to become much more than mere spectators.

"We are all about audience participation," Gerson said. "You can't throw things at stage, but a list of callbacks will be in the program for the audience to refer to, and an introduction course will be given by the narrator at the beginning of the show."

Aside from their own lines, audience members have plenty of surprises to look forward to. "The floor show is the most exciting number," Manica said. "I can't tell you any more, because it would give away the surprise, but watch for it -- it's hot."

And while we can't disclose all the surprises, there's little doubt that TTII's "Rocky Horror Show" has all of the elements of a must see. "It's easily the craziest show that I've ever been a part of," junior Armen Nercessian (Eddie/Dr Scott ) said. "There are transvestites, aliens, mad scientists, and omniscient narrators. 'Rocky' has it all."