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 "Shock Treatment" was written by "Rocky Horror" creator
Richard O'Brien and made into a film in 1981 but it did not have
the success of the original musical, which has built up a big
international cult following over the decades.
Following "Rocky Horror" characters Brad and Janet into a world
of television media, "Shock Treatment" is now being staged for
the first time at a London theater with the go-ahead from
O'Brien and music composer Richard Hartley.
Directed by Benji Sperring and adapted for the stage by Tom
Crowley, the production has cut the film's cast from around 20
roles to seven and has reworked the script.
"The film was a bit of a mess really but we always thought we
had some good songs and when Benji approached us about putting
it on stage, I thought why not?" Hartley told Reuters.
"It's been completely re-imagined by Tom Crowley and it's become
a show for today."
Sperring said he had pursued O'Brien for nearly 10 years to get
the rights to stage the show. He finally agreed but on the
condition that it be put on at a small venue -- just as "Rocky
Horror" was when it made its theatrical debut in 1973.
Both the "Rocky Horror" stage musical and film have become
hugely popular, with audiences dressing up and interacting with
the characters and fan clubs staging theme parties.
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"We've got no idea if the audience will get up and get involved or
if they're going to sit back and be passive or if it's going to be a
very active piece," Sperring said.
"The actors are prepped as much as they can be and they're aware
that they're just having fun. Richard O'Brien very early on said
'Let fun be your guide and as long as you're having fun, the show
will be alright'."
The show features London stage actress Julie Atherton as Janet and
Australian actor Mark Little as TV executive Farley Flavors.
"Shock Treatment" runs until June 6 at the north London King's Head
Theater.
(Reporting By Rollo Ross; Writing by Marie-Louise Gumuchian; Editing
by Gareth Jones)
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