Mississauga, ON – February 26, 2024
by Lejla Pepeljak
The Rocky Horror Show has been an unlikely hit in the world of musical theatre since 1973. Its daring and unconventional approach to the journey its characters go on was enough to keep people chatting throughout the years. City Centre Musical Productions (CCMP) has presented the opportunity to see this one-of-a-kind story by Richard O’Brien from March 8 to 17 at the popular Meadowvale Theatre in Mississauga.
If you are feeling daring, there is even a special midnight show on opening night, March 8. Don’t miss out on this interactive, unique chance to experience Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show in all its glory. Must be 18+.
The CCMP’s Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show production relies on Director/Choreographer: Michael MacLennan*, Musical Director: Steve Lavoie, Stage Manager: Glenn Pringle, Producers: Marlene Taylor, Susan Pringle with assistant Megan Cruz (*Michael MacLennan appears with permission from The Canadian Actors Equity Association). The CCMP has been around since 1989. Their performers come from all around the GTA, including Mississauga, Halton and Hamilton to name a few.
“We are combining the old and the new. We will have some traditional elements to represent a two-level Gothic castle, but there is a modern twist in the construction. Since the music is heavily influenced by 50s rock and roll, I wanted there to be a concert like aesthetic, but in a modern setting.” says Michael MacLennan, Director/Choreographer of the production.
The musical is an ode to science fiction and B-movies, with a fair garnishing of transvestism throughout the entire production, this is one performance you won’t want to miss! Like most other Rocky Horror Show performances, according to the CCMP’s website, there will be elements of audience participation and mature themes, so only bring those who are over the age of 18 for this show. MacLennan says of the audience participation, that although die-hard fans will expect some of it, in the original script, there is less than in the movie that many are familiar with.
This production got me thinking about the recent release of the film “Poor Things” starring Emma Stone and William Dafoe. How different, but similar stories of sexual discovery and exploration have changed over the decades. During the original production of the musical in the 70s and later its movie version, revolutions of gender, sexuality and race liberation were on the rise and people were having those uncomfortable conversations. And still today, these conversations exist, but on a very different level. It is a pleasure to be able to experience it in many different ways, whether it’s a local theatre production or through an international film.
When asked why people should come, especially for words of encouragement for the atypical crowd, Michael says “There is a false perception that this show isn’t for the ‘older crowd.‘ Given that the 20 and 30-year-olds who frequented the Rocky Horror Picture Show in the 1970s and 80s are now in their 70s and 80s, I think we can put that myth to rest. I predict the older members of our audience will be making more noise than our younger patrons.”
It is bound to be a shock to the system, in the best way possible!
Get tickets HERE.
