Department News

Fall 2008 - Cabaret Spring 2006 - Repertory Dance Concert Fall 2007 - Arts OR Crafts

Message from the Chair...


Act I: MSU Theater rocks with retro camp

From the Lansing State Journal: Published September 24, 2009

The Michigan State University Department of Theatre's first foray into a season that brings together guest artists and students will be the campy Rocky Horror Show.

Richard O'Brien's cult classic musical is being performed in Wharton Center's Pasant Theatre. The MSU theater department will provide props for audience members who want to participate in the manner that became famous at midnight screenings around the country since the film version premiered in 1975.

The musical comedy parodies science fiction and horror films and has the longest-running theatrical release in film history - more than 34 years. The main characters, Brad and Janet, take a wrong turn on their honeymoon and end up at Dr. Frank N. Furter's castle.

The MSU production brings in two guest artists - director Tommy Gomez and musical director Jeff English.

"This 'Rocky Horror' is a mix of what people know from the film with what they may not know in the world of live theater," Gomez said. "Live music where a band is part of the show, hot dances and funny character situations will be a part of the experience. We will provide the props so you don't have to sneak them in."

Videos have already been released on YouTube from when the cast went out to perform numbers from the musical at an East Lansing bar. (Watch the promo)

In the tradition of the late-night movie, MSU will also hold a midnight performance on Friday. Other special events include a pre-show director's talk on Sunday and a talkback after the show on Oct. 1.

College of Arts and Letters communication director Mike Jenkins said other guest artists will include a visiting faculty member who will put an Asian spin on Trojan Women, senior citizens from East Lansing for Dancing in Our Time, and the playwright for In the Blood, a retelling of The Scarlet Letter story.

Jenkins also said all of the Big Ten schools will be performing the play Palmer Park this academic year, a play about a white couple in Detroit after the riots.

Show details