Those making plans for a perfect Halloween outing need look no further than Pioneer Theatre Company’s “The Rocky Horror Show,” running Oct. 20-31, with a special 10 p.m. performance on Halloween.

A groundbreaking cult musical and beloved glam rock tribute to B-horror films, “The Rocky Horror Show” returns with some of the most iconic characters in musical theatre history: squares Brad and Janet, mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter, his “monster,” and, of course, a swath of drive-in usherettes and creepy sidekicks.

Several members of the University of Utah community are integral in the production, including Department of Theatre alum Micki Martinez in the featured role of Columbia.

“One of my favorite parts about being in ‘Rocky Horror’ is working with the incredibly talented cast. They have all been so wonderful, and it feels great to be back at PTC taking on such a fun role,” Martinez said.

“Audiences have the unique opportunity to see the cult classic come to life in a way they have never seen it before…and everything is live!” she continued. “They can participate in the usual callouts and even purchase prop kits to use throughout the show. It’s not every day you get to throw a styrofoam hotdog at a Broadway veteran!”

The show’s costumes are designed by Aaron Asano Swenson, a fellow alum and current marketing and communications coordinator for the Department of Theatre. “This is my third time designing ‘Rocky’ for PTC, and that’s an opportunity you rarely get,” Swenson explained.

“It’s always challenging, time-wise (I think we had 12 days of rehearsal before first dress?), but it’s uniquely rewarding. You don’t have time to second-guess anything, so there’s this incredible sense of trust and collaboration. And after eight years away, I get to see it with fresh eyes—the design aspect, yes, but also the amazing work from the costume shop, wardrobe, stage management, the artistic team, the cast, the musicians…that’s what makes this insane process survivable and fruitful and enjoyable.”

Also appearing in the cast as Phantoms are five current Department of Theatre students: Lauren Crutcher, Jordan Cruz, Evan Latta, Lila Prince and James Wong.

Join PTC for a full-throttle “Rocky Horror” experience in all of its interactive, campy glory—celebrating the landmark musical’s 50th anniversary. Let’s all do the time warp again!

The Rocky Horror Show
Oct. 20-31, 2023
Pioneer Theatre Company
Click here for ticket info.

University of Utah students can get up to two $5 tickets with their UCard (thanks to Arts Pass!) if they go to the rush window within an hour before show time. If students want reserved seating ahead of time, they can get up to two tickets half-price by scanning their UCard in person at the box office.