Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical returns to the Lyceum between 12-17 January 2026 as part of a new world tour.

Having been seen by over 35 million theatregoers, 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. It is an adventure they’ll never forget, filled with fun, frolics, frocks, and frivolity.

Ahead of its arrival we spoke to Stephen Webb who will be playing Dr Frank-n-Furter.

What was your first reaction when you found out you’d be playing Frank in The Rocky Horror Show?

Well, I couldn’t believe it first of all. When I originally wanted to audition for Rocky, I thought I’d be up for Brad and then they said, “No, we want to see you for Frank.” When I got it, I was ECSTATIC, I couldn’t believe that I got this role. But in the next moment, I was really anxious because it’s such an iconic role, I just want to live up to the legacy. 

Frank is such an iconic character, how do you bring your own twist to the role while honouring the legacy of past performances?

I remember that Christopher Luscombe, the director, said, “We don’t want you to do an impersonation of Tim Curry, we want to see your version”, which actually settled me. I portray Frank using an American accent instead of an English accent. Obviously, Frank’s costume is quite feminine, so I do inject an element of masculinity into my performance – my take on it is a little bit rough around the edges. The audience has mixed feelings about Frank which I love. He is a lovable psychopath! Because the character was written during the 70s glam rock era, I take inspiration from David Bowie, T. Rex and Queen. But I always find something new every performance, which makes playing this role so exciting.

What’s your favourite part of performing as Frank each night?

There are two moments. One is my entrance. I’m not on stage for the first twenty minutes and the audience are waiting for Frank to come on. There’s a big drum beat before I enter and I’ve got this big old cloak on. I walk down centre stage and sing “Sweet Transvestite”, whip off my cloak and reveal my crazy costume. The audience goes absolutely berserk for it. It doesn’t matter if I’ve had the worst day in the world – it goes away as soon as I’m on that stage. Another special moment for me is when you see the vulnerable side of Frank. It’s like he’s taken off his mask and you’re seeing the true side of him.

The audience plays a huge role in the Rocky Horror experience. Do you have a favourite audience interaction or reaction so far?

There are loads of shouts throughout the show. The audience are very much part of the show; they are almost another character. I’ve heard pretty much all of them now, so they don’t tend to catch me out. When I’m talking to Rocky when he first comes out there are a few shouts that are quite rude, and I love them! I think they’re really funny.

What’s the most challenging part about playing Frank, either physically or emotionally?

It’s not wearing the heels – I absolutely love wearing those – it’s actually wearing the black corset because it doesn’t give. I make sure I eat at the right time, otherwise I struggle throughout the show. Singing and dancing in a corset means I must make sure that I eat and drink enough at the right time before doing the show. 

The Rocky Horror Show has been pushing boundaries for more than 50 years. Why do you think audiences keep coming back after all these years?

It’s a show that celebrates what it means to be different, to follow your dreams like the song “Don’t dream it, be it”. There are amazing songs; I don’t think you could ever get bored with the “Time Warp” or “Sweet Transvestite”! It’s got a lot of heart, it’s extremely funny, and it allows people to be part of it – there’s no other show like it.

Click here for booking details.