Fifty years ago, The Rocky Horror Picture Show shocked cinemas with its sexual freedom and camp horror. Now, Adelaide Fringe serves this gender-bending classic alongside cucumber sandwiches and petit fours. This strange combo creates a feast that feeds both the eyes and stomach.
The action unfolds on Nineteen Ten’s semi-exposed rooftop, complete with a swimming pool setting the scene. Five performers (Cherrybomb, Sara Martini, Jazida, Artemis7, and Pom De Terror) bring Rocky’s colorful characters to life between bites of traditional tea cakes.
As the audience emerges from the lift, you’re in a pool area with a bar and tiered cake stands offering something for every taste bud (and yes, the venue has even catered for dietary requirements). Most guests are middle-aged fans who grew up doing the Time Warp in midnight cinemas.
This isn’t a full retelling of the film. It’s a series of burlesque highlights from the cult classic. Wait staff ensure glasses stay full throughout the two-hour experience. The sheer novelty of the venue, food, and performances makes for a memorable event.
Games punctuate the show every few minutes – Rocky Horror bingo, trivia contests, and even a ‘Time Warp’ competition with costume judging. Several versions of the ‘Time Warp’ play throughout, along with ‘Sweet Transvestite’ and lesser-known numbers from the soundtrack.
The genius lies in merging prim high tea with sexual liberation. The contrast works because both experiences celebrate indulgence in their own way.
Pom De Terror deserves special praise for her last-minute heroics. After another performer’s injury the night before, Terror mastered her role in mere hours. She performed as if Rocky Horror was her destiny all along.
Cherrybomb’s Magenta brings a perfectly surly but playful energy that captures the original character’s spirit. And Jazida served well as emcee.
With a higher ticket price than most other Fringe shows, the question on your lips is, did it deliver value? The answer is, yes, definitely. The high quality of the food and performances and the work that went into putting the show together make it worth every dollar.
In an era where rainbow rights face renewed attacks, Rocky Horror‘s celebration of sexual and gender diversity remains vital. This clever twist on a classic offers a chance to toast those who live on society’s fabulous fringes. Let’s do the Time Warp again – with brownies this time.
Rocky Horror: High Tease High Tea
Nineteen Ten, Rooftop/143 Hindley Street, Adelaide
Performance: 23 March 2025 – 1.00 pm (season ended)
Information: www.adelaidefringe.com.au
Image: The Cast of the Rocky Horror: High Tease High Tea (supplied)
Review: Daniel G. Taylor