RICHARD O’BRIEN

Q: I believe I’m right in saying that The Rocky Horror Show was inspired by sci-fi/horror B-movies of the 1950’s. What are the qualities of these films that appealed so much to you when you created the show?
A: The unintentional humour and their populist appeal.

Q: What do you think are the elements that make the Rocky Horror phenomenon so enduring in its appeal?
A: It’s a fairy tale that takes itself seriously in order to reveal its own trashy content.

Q: The show has such great music. What kind of music do you like, and what was the inspiration for the music for the Rocky Horror Show?
A: Rock and Roll of course – but I enjoy a wide range of music with a special fondness for jazz and swing.

Q: There are a huge number of international fan websites and clubs, and in some countries, the Rocky Horror Show is in constant performance. How does it translate so well all over the world?
A: It is the story of Genesis retold. This is the prime story for all followers of Islam, Judaism and Christianity.

Q: How did the Rocky Horror Tribute Show come about?
A: There was a celebration of 50 years of new writing for the English Stage Company at The Royal Court Theatre and people were asked to vote for their favourite production of a play – Rocky Horror won the honour.

Q: Was it difficult pulling together a cast so that it could include some members from the original show, and also artists who have been in productions over the years?
A: Not particularly – people have a great fondness for the piece.

Q: You rewrote the narration for the show. What changes was it necessary to make in order to create a cabaret-like Rocky Horror Show?
A: Simply more story telling to cover the lack of character dialogue and move more quickly from song to song.

Q: Both Tim Curry and Anthony Head have given memorable performances in the leading role. What makes a great Frank-N-Furter?
A: Bravado and charm.

Q: Have you ever wanted to play the role yourself?
A: I have. I had a great time.

Q: The Rocky Horror Tribute Show must have been such a treat for the loyal fans, and there was a very special atmosphere. How were the tickets allocated when so many will have wanted to be there?
A: We sold out very quickly and tickets were changing hands for £1,000 per ticket.

Q: The next tour of the Rocky Horror Show has already started in Europe. Are you able to tell us yet about the dates for the UK in 2009, and which artists will be performing?
A: None mooted at the time of writing.

Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Tribute Show (NVC Arts 51865-0799-2) is available to purchase at www.amazon.co.uk