Rooftop Productions presents ‘The Rocky Horror Show’

ARTfactory’s Rooftop Productions is performing “The Rocky Horror Show” on selected dates through Oct. 5.

The show will be performed in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory in Manassas.

Written by Richard O'Brien, the production combines a diverse blend of rock music with outrageous humor and thrilling plot twists. The story follows a newly engaged couple, Brad and Janet, who, after experiencing car trouble and a rainstorm, happen upon a mysterious castle owned by the eccentric Dr. Frank N. Furter.

At the castle, Brad and Janet uncover his bizarre world and even more freakishly bizarre entourage. What follows is a fantastic frenzy of seduction, intrigue and outrageous antics.

When it debuted in 1973, the 20th Century Fox film captivated audiences. Followed by the stage version in 1975, the show is a cult classic.

When asked about its popularity, cast member James Maxted, who plays Riff-Raff, recalled first seeing the show during his freshman year in college.

“I’ve always been a fan of musicals, rock and roll, and b sci-fi movies so this was right up my alley,” Maxted said. “Add in the insanely inappropriate responses and ad-libs of the audience with the performers in front of the screen and I knew I loved it.”

This is Maxted’s second time playing the role; he previously performed it with Unquiet Theatre Company in Lorton in 2013.

“The Rocky Horror Show” celebrates diversity, individuality and the freedom to be yourself, according to a news release. Playing on that freedom, director Kimberly Kemp’s vision for the production is unconventional, even by the show’s standards.

Starting in the Caton Merchant Family Gallery on the ARTfactory’s first floor, audience members will be immersed in the first few scenes of the show before transitioning to the third floor theater space, where the production continues. From there, audiences can expect an electrifying spectacle.

For theatergoers looking to enhance their experience, ARTfactory is offering bundle packages and additional perks, including a signature drink, a “Frankenfurter” hot dog and a prop bag, complete with traditional Rocky Horror fan favorites, such as a roll of toilet paper.

In addition to Maxted, the cast includes Zach Burgess, Megan Bently, Anastasia Hanchak, Talya Conroy, Muggs Leone, Patrick Bell, Zack Walsh, Richard Pollington, Sarah Allbrandt, Ahryel Tinker, Shelby Cody-Jones, Wyatt Underwood, Caroline Battle and Chris Maulden.