REVIEW: THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR @ DOMINION THEATRE

🎭 The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary Spectacular

📍 Dominion Theatre, 268-269 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7AQ

🗓 Sunday 19th April 2026

⭐️ 5 Stars

DAMMIT, JANET, IT'S ASTOUNDING!

I have always loved this movie, and anyone who knows me knows that I'm a massive fan of the stage show, so when the invitation arrived for this anniversary spectacular, I didn't just jump at it, I jumped to the left and stepped to the right!

The Dominion Theatre was absolutely packed to the rafters with die-hard fans of this cult masterpiece. The atmosphere was electric, and the foyer was a sea of fishnets, gold sequins, and lab coats as the audience recreated those iconic costumes with seriously impressive dedication.

The evening kicked off with a welcome from Larry Viezel, the President of the Official International Fan Club, who invited the best-dressed fans on stage for a costume competition, which was judged by none other than the original Columbia herself, Nell Campbell.

Nell was then joined on stage by fellow Rocky Horror Royalty Barry Bostwick (Brad) and Patricia Quinn (Magenta) for a Q&A that was worth the ticket price alone. This particular performance was extra special as it featured a rare public appearance from Peter Hinwood (the original Rocky), which was a real "pinch me" moment for the fans. They regaled us with behind-the-scenes stories, but the absolute highlight was Barry Bostwick breaking into "Once in a While" - Brad's song that was famously cut from the film. The room turned into "wild and untamed things" at that point, the nostalgia was through the roof.

Then came the main event: the movie on the big screen. But this was a "double feature" in itself, as a shadow cast of fans performed the scenes live below the screen. Now, look - it was chaotic, and it was definitely under-rehearsed, but therein lay the absolute beauty of it! It was definitely rough and ready but it honestly had so much more charm than a slick, over-polished professional cast ever could. It honestly felt authentic to the spirit of Rocky Horror. That said, the final performer taking on Frank-N-Furter was genuinely excellent and really knew how to work the crowd.

The surprises didn't stop there. Barry made a cheeky cameo during the wedding scene, and Nell performed her iconic Columbia dance break during "The Time Warp". How many people can actually boast they've seen her do that live on stage in 2026? It was absolute magic. I also loved the clever touch of putting an intermission in the exact same spot where the interval appears in the stage musical. This was a real nod to the show's theatrical roots.

With a prop bag gifted on entry (party hats, hooters, and glow sticks galore!), the night was a camp, chaotic, and joyous celebration. As a huge fan of the film, I loved every second of it. It wasn't just a screening; it was a high-energy love letter to a fandom that is still going strong after 50 years.

Don't dream it - see it!

Neill Kovacic-Clarke

All views are my own and I pride myself on being honest, fair and free from influence. Theatre is subjective and it is important to remember that all views expressed are just those of one reviewer.  

My ticket for this performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary Spectacular was gifted by Kevin Wilson Public Relations who invited me to watch the show in exchange for my honest review. The fact that my ticket was gifted played no part in the content of my review or the star rating given. 

APPEARANCES FROM:

Nell Campbell; Barry Bostwick; Patricia Quinn; Peter Hinwood

RUNNING TIME (approx):

3 hours, including interval

CONTENT WARNINGS:

It's Rocky Horror - You know what you're in for! Just give yourself over to absolute pleasure and you'll be fine!

MOVIE RATING:

12A

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