The Rocky Horror Show is a play and a movie that has transcended its time to become an icon of its generation. Everyone of a certain age knows what to do next when someone says, “It’s just a jump to the left.” This is the kind of connection that Theatre 55 has always sought to find with its productions. Our productions of Hair re-awakened hippie ideals, Pippin’s self-doubt and self-exploration translated a youthful quest into a midlife crisis, Urinetown brought out a spirit of communal protest, and now Rocky Horror will unlock the bands of sexual taboo. Rocky Horror is an icon of LGBTQ culture, but it also translates well to the sexual repression and suppression of the elder population at large.

Theatre 55 was formed with the purpose of developing lifelong learning through theatre performance and education. Our vision is to enrich the lives of elders as artists, audiences, and lifelong learners through theatrical performance and education. Theatre 55 aims to produce high-energy, impactful productions utilizing the senior artists of our community. We strive to engage with vibrant seniors living throughout the Twin Cities and beyond through classes, workshops, showcases, and performance.

This mission plays out in this production with a cast of actors that includes Lawrence Hutera, an actor who first appeared on Twin Cities stages nearly 50 years ago, and at age 72, claims to be the oldest actor ever to be cast as Dr. Frank-N-Furter! The role of Janet, played by 60-something-year-old actor, Lori Gehrke, says that this is the first time in her long stage career being cast as the ingenue. And while Brian Driscoll’s last time on stage was in high school, he gets to step into the role of Riff Raff after being an audience member dozens of times.

The Rocky Horror Show  by Richard O’Brien. January 28 – February 6, 2022, at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th Street, Minneapolis.

Theatre 55 is committed to equitable access to its shows, so tickets will be sold on a “Pay What You Can” model. While seating is not reserved, tickets are priced at $5, $10, $20, and $40. Patrons have the opportunity to choose the amount that best fits their budget. Tickets available at theatre55.org.

COVID-19 Protocols This show is being produced in accordance with CDC guidelines and evolving best practices. All members of the cast & staff are vaccinated and subject to frequent testing, and all rehearsals are conducted in masks. Patrons will be asked for proof of vaccination and will be required to wear masks in the theater at all times.