Theatre / Musical Theatre
Meet… the Rocky Horror Show’s new Janet
Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical The Rocky Horror Show returns to the UK as part of a sell-out worldwide tour in 2019, looking in at the Hippodrome from June 17-22.
The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic Dr Frank-N-Furter.
Directed by Christopher Luscombe, this thrilling show bursts at the seams with timeless classics including Sweet Transvestite, Science Fiction/Double Feature, Damn It Janet and, of course, the pelvic-thrusting Time Warp.
is needed now More than ever
We grabbed a quick chat with professional dancer, presenter, actress and Strictly regular Joanne Clifton, who plays Janet (pictured top, with Stephen Webb as Frank-N-Furter).
What made you say want to play Janet – and what do you enjoy most about the role?
I’ve been doing the Time Warp at dance school since I was little, so the opportunity to perform it in the actual show was too good an opportunity to pass up. The show is so much loved, and anyone who has been in the Rocky Horror Show will tell you it’s the funnest show to work on!
How similar is your own personality to Janet’s? Can you relate to her at all?
Well I’m definitely not prim and proper – but I am from a small town, and I was a shy one growing up, like Janet. I didn’t even smile while dancing. When I got older, I moved to Italy and came out of my shell… I think that’s the main thing I have in common with the character!
You had a long career in the world of ballroom dancing. How did you find transitioning to theatre?
Well, as soon as I got back to England in 2014 I started up my singing and acting lessons again. I was doing this alongside Strictly and my dancing. In 2015 and 2016 I did a couple of Fringe shows, so I started out small and worked up. Then, when I finished Strictly in 2016, I felt totally ready to take on a role in a UK tour.
Miracle Chance (Columbia), Laura Harrison (Magenta), Joanne Clifton (Janet), Ben Adams (Brad) and Kristian Lavercombe as Riff Raff. Pic: Richard Davenport / The Other Richard
What are the differences, and similarities, between ballroom dancing and musical theatre?
Of course the biggest difference is that when dancing, you have no speaking role. There is a lot more to a musical theatre performance, I think, as it combines dancing with both singing and acting. I quite like the fact that the audience mainly know me as a dancer. The fact I can sing and act is often a surprise… I like that.
Tell us about your favourite musical theatre roles so far.
I have loved them all for different reasons. But my favourite was maybe Marilyn Monroe in Norma Jeane The Musical. I just loved playing her. But all the others come a very close second.
What’s it like being constantly on the road?
Well I love discovering new and exciting places, but living out of a suitcase isn’t the most fun.
What’s the one item you can’t be on tour without?
Pie and a jigsaw. My two passions!
The Rocky Horror Show is at the Hippodrome from June 17-22. For more info and to book tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/bristol-hippodrome
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