Credit: Mark Garvin
Actor, producer, and reality TV star Frankie Grande is set to draw audiences again as Dr. Frank-n-Furter in “Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show” at Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope borough.
The show, which last year set box office records at the venue, runs from October 11 to November 3.
Grande, who received acclaim for his performance in the same role last season, brings back his charisma and flamboyance to a production known for its annual run at the playhouse.
The show’s return is highly anticipated by fans who have eagerly awaited the announcement since last year’s successful stint.
“Last year, ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ at Bucks County Playhouse with an extraordinary cast led by Frankie Grande became the biggest party in New Hope,” said Producer Josh Fiedler. “We are thrilled to welcome back this cast and showcase Hunter’s devilish sense of humor with Shannon’s knock-out choreography.”
“The Rocky Horror Show was outrageously successful last year and ever since the final curtain fell, audiences have been asking us if Frankie and this cast will be returning,” said Fraser. “We are beyond excited to remount Hunter and Shannon’s gothic and glam production and look forward to audiences reveling in Frankie Grande’s outrageous take on this iconic character.”
Grande himself said he is eager to reprise his role.
“I am beyond thrilled to be slipping back into the fabulous heels of Frank-N-Furter at Bucks County Playhouse,” said Grande. “This role is pure magic, and I’m ready to bring every ounce of glam, sass, and rock ‘n’ roll to the stage. Get ready for a wild ride, darlings—let’s do the Time Warp again!”
The cast includes a blend of new and returning talent.
Alongside Grande, the production will feature Mike Bindeman as Rocky, Stephanie Prestage as Janet, and Tim Shea as Riff Raff. Alyssa Wray returns as Magenta, with Larkin Reilly as Columbia and Benjamin Howes as the Narrator/Dr. Scott. The role of Brad will be announced shortly.
As in previous years, patrons are invited to dance the Time Warp with the cast on stage.
The creative team comprises Jeffrey Perri on Scenic Design, Nicole V. Moody on Costume Design, and J. Jared Janas overseeing Hair and Wig Design. Lighting is by Travis McHale, sound by Bart Fasbender, and musical direction by Evan Zavada.
The show also is put on by Executive Producer Robyn Goodman, Producing Director Alexander Fraser, Producer Josh Fiedler, choreography by Shannon Lewis, and direction by Playhouse Artistic Associate Hunter Foster.
“The Rocky Horror Show,” which inspired the 1975 cult classic film, promises a unique theater experience with its mix of rock n’ roll, horror, and fishnets.
Grande, whose half-sister is singer and actress Ariana Grande, is a presenter, actor, producer, reality TV personality and the host of Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob BingePants” podcast. Grande recently starred in the horror comedy film, “Summoning Sylvia.” He also recently marked his return to the New York Theater in “Titanique: The Musical.”
Tickets for the local production of “The Rocky Horror Show” start at $75, with special discounts available for groups of 10 or more.
The show schedule includes performances Tuesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit buckscountyplayhouse.org, call 215-862-2121, or stop by the box office at 70 South Main Street in New Hope Borough.
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