More theatre productions

CASTLETON, Vermont -- The Castleton State College Theatre Arts Department presents The Rocky Horror Show, November 9-12, 2000, on the 25th anniversary of the release of the cult classic movie.

Rocky Horror is the story of clean-cut Brad and Janet, who seek refuge in the castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, from the planet Transexual in the galaxy of Transylvania. The play is a rock musical, a spoof of science fiction movies, and a bizarre story of seduction and sexual confusion. The movie, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, is known for audience participation and the fanatical loyalty of its fans.

Director and professor Harry McEnerny said he wants to get the attention of theater goers with this production. "Audiences are becoming more and more complacent," he said, blaming television. "They'll sit there and watch whatever is happening on stage. But an audience needs to be involved. With this play, you cannot watch passively."

To encourage participation, bags of props will be for sale in the lobby. Outrageous comments will appear on a prompter above the stage. "My grandmother will be horrified," joked student Chery Rovetto of Killington, one of three choreographers. "I told her not to come, but she is anyway."

Mary Beth Platt, the student stage manager in charge of audience participation, added, "Working on the play has been the most fun I've had in a long time. I know people will have a great time."

Fine Arts Center coordinator Mariko Hancock said the box office has been receiving reservations from Rocky Horror fans as far away as Rhode Island. A fan from Ohio, who learned of the Castleton production on one of the many Rocky Horror web sites, called for a poster.

Director McEnerny said he is not attempting to recreate the movie on stage, but to offer a unique theatrical experience. One change in the story was by accident. A week before the opening, senior Dina Buglione, a sizzling actress who plays Magenta, broke her foot during rehearsal and will be appearing on crutches. McEnerny said, "We're not going to hide it. People are very forgiving. And maybe that will be our addition to Rocky Horror. From now on Magenta will be on crutches."