The Rocky Horror Show, Peacock Theatre & cinemas

The Rocky Horror Show is nothing short of a phenomenon. Originally created in 1973 as a stage musical by Richard O'Brien, who authored book, music and lyrics, it became a blockbuster film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, in 1975, with a cast that included young Hollywood actors Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick as the naive couple Janet and Brad, and Tim Curry in a memorable hilariously perverse turn as the transvestite Dr Frank'n'Furter.

Its wacky and transgressive plot centres on the young couple whose car breaks down at night outside a spooky mansion, where they go for help, meet a cast of weird and wonderful characters and, tutored by Dr Frank'n'Furter, learn a lot more about themselves and life in general than they ever thought they would.

With a series of catchy musical numbers like Sweet Transvestite, Dammit Janet and the Time Warp, it's not surprising The Rocky Horror Show has returned to stages the world over again and again, and in the process acquired a loyal following, which renews itself from generation to generation, many fans turning up at performances in full costume and all expert at doing the Time Warp.

Now The Rocky Horror Show is back with a short run at the Peacock Theatre as part of a UK tour. The new production stars Strictly Come Dancing winner Ore Aduba as Brad, Haley Flaherty (Mamma Mia/Chicago) as Janet and Stephen Webb (Jersey Boys/Legally Blonde) as Dr Frank'n'Furter. The role of the Narrator is taken by Philip Franks (Darling Buds of May).

Here's a taster:

So, whether you go to a live show at the Peacock Theatre or opt to mark Halloween by doing the Time Warp in the aisles of your local cinema, don't miss the current production of The Rocky Horror Show – just what's needed to lift some of the current gloom.