Rocky Horror is flamboyant and liberating

It was pretty clear that even after 40 years of theatrical productions, the thunderous standing ovation that greeted Rocky Horror Show refuses to lessen.

The incarnation from One-Way Ticket to Broadway isn’t exactly new or world shattering. But in challenging sexual stereotypes, it receives a roar of approval and takes on a life of its own.

Without question it’s a campy over-the-top send-up of 1950s science fiction films mixed with the kink of the late ’60s, early ’70s sexual revolution.

Director Linette Smith has a strong cast of young people at her disposal, one that comes across as fresh and entertaining.

And musical director Matt Graham has the six-piece band rocking along with the boisterous cast. Everyone – cast and musicians – seem to be having the time of their life and they are running full throttle.

Martin Galba as the mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter is clearly the musical’s star. Costumed in a bustier, fishnets, heavy makeup and false eyelashes, Galba milks the part for all it’s worth.

Manipulating his cohorts, he swishes and sways on high heels oozing charm in a somewhat soft, sexy manner. Unfortunately Galba never comes across as compellingly evil, a trait that reinforces Frank-N-Furter’s deadly seductive allure. But he is without a doubt, the prettiest Frank-N-Furter I’ve ever seen.

Nadine Veroba as Janet and Dustyn Tennessen as Brad are the naĂŻve, love-struck young couple standing in the rain unaware their life is about to be upended as the loud, over-sexualized party revolves around them.

Both actors have strong pipes and they rise to the occasion in Dammit, Janet! and Over at the Frankenstein Place. Veroba has perfect control over her solos in Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-me while Brad shows his full range in Once In a While.

Mark Sinongco is feisty Riff-Raff, the defiant yet creepy butler to Frankenstein. And Hanna Skibin as his wickedly sexy sister is chock full of crazy charisma.

Amanda Neufeld as the sparkly Columbia is the orphan resulting from Frank-N-Furter’s first experiment. And Kirkland Doiron brings a little-lost-boy quality to the muscle-bound Rocky Horror.

Melissa Doucette as Eddie gets the house rockin’ in Hot Patootie, while Michael Vetsch, as the narrator nattily attired in a grey suit and tie, is delightful contrast to the vibrant insanity swirling around him.

No matter how often you’ve see Rocky, there is always a fresh and exciting development. And don’t forget to pick up the obligatory loot bag full of confetti, newspapers, rubber gloves, noisemakers, toilet paper and cards.

Rocky Horror Show runs at La Cité Francophone until Nov. 15.