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University Theatre stages cult-classic 'Rocky Horror Show'

by Tonya Durlach

Oct. 13, 2011 | WMU News

Photo from the Rocky Horror Show at WMU.
Araoz as Magenta, McConnell as Frank 'n' Furter and Garaffagna as Riff Raff
KALAMAZOO--Digital media artists at Western Michigan University have joined forces with University Theatre and Miller Auditorium to produce the interactive "The Rocky Horror Show," which premieres Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-29.

Both shows start at 8 p.m. at Miller Auditorium.

Follow squeaky-clean sweethearts Brad and Janet on an adventure they'll never forget, with the scandalous Frank 'n' Furter, rippling Rocky and vivacious Magenta. WMU's production of Richard O'Brien's classic original script includes such timeless classics as "Sweet Transvestite," "Dammit Janet" and "Time Warp."

"The Rocky Horror Show" contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences only. Audience members are directed to leave props at home as approved audience participation bags will be available to purchase with tickets or at the door.

Cast and creative team

Students and staff working in WMU's digital media studio, Studio A, have helped create imagery for "The Rocky Horror Show," which employs five projection screens and six digital projectors. Using professional 3D modeling, animation and video tools, the staff, led by the Office of Information Technology's Kevin Abbott, project lead for 3D and interactive media, are creating a variety of scenes, including the singing lips, church, rain-swept roadway and Dr. Frank 'n' Furter's castle. All of the content will be played back using the Unity game engine, allowing the projections to integrate seamlessly with the live on-stage action.

Jay Berkow, associate professor of theatre, directs the cast, which includes:

In addition to Abbott and Berkow, the creative team includes: Alan Knight, stage manager; Greg Roehrick, scenic designer; Justin Humphres, assistant scenic designer; Matthew Knewtson, lighting and sound designer; Bridget Williams, assistant lighting designer; and Felicia Genther, costume designer.

Tickets

"The Rocky Horror Show" is part of Miller Auditorium's Lake Michigan Mailers Spotlight Series and is welcomed by Meijer. Tickets are on sale now for $25. They can be purchased online at millerauditorium.com, by calling (269) 387-2300 or (800) 228-9858, or in person at the Miller Auditorium Ticket Office.

A 15 percent discount is available to all WMU faculty and staff, and a 50 percent discount is available to WMU students. Discounted tickets must be purchased by phone or in person, and a valid Bronco Card is required at the time of pickup. Group discounts are available at (269) 387-2312.

For more information, contact Bethany Gauthier at bethany.gauthier@wmich.edu or (269) 387-2245.