The Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of The Rocky Horror Show premiered Thursday night at New York's Studio 54, directed by Sam Pinkleton with stars including Luke Evans and Stephanie Hsu. Fans and celebrities gathered for a night celebrating the cult classic's themes of self-expression and queer identity. The production honors the original's satirical sci-fi horror spoof from 1973.
Opening night buzz filled Studio 54 as the curtain rose on the revival. Directed by Tony winner Sam Pinkleton, the show features Luke Evans as the pansexual alien Dr. Frank-N-Furter, who struts in heels, fishnets and a thong while performing 'Sweet Transvestite.' Evans, new to heels, called them a challenge that built new leg muscles and deepened his respect for wearers. 'God, they are heroes to me,' he said on the red carpet. Costume designer David I. Reynoso crafted iconic looks, like a white vinyl nurse-dominatrix outfit for Frank's lab scene where Rocky, played by Josh Rivera, is unveiled. Reynoso noted Evans's openness to bold choices honoring the characters' visual identity. Guests arrived in chaps, corsets and makeup, echoing the show's rituals. Attendees included Susan Sarandon, who played Janet in the 1975 film, Neil Patrick Harris and Marc Jacobs. Sarandon praised the message 'Don’t dream it, be it,' saying it promotes authenticity in a safe space. Stephanie Hsu, playing Janet, hoped to 'shake the loins and the spirit' of the original star with a queer, animal-like take. Cast members like Juliette Lewis as Magenta and Harvey Guillén as Eddie and Dr. Scott shared personal connections. Lewis, who discovered the show at 11, said its music unified outsiders. Guillén admired its unapologetic queerness helping generations feel they belong. Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, as Columbia, called it a radical response to recent opposition to gay and transgender rights. After bows and an encore of 'The Time Warp,' the crowd moved to an after-party at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square for themed cocktails and a buffet.