Don’t dream it, be it — Halloween night at XES’ Rocky Horror Show!
By Brandon Voss
It’s been more than 30 years since The Rocky Horror Show premiered with its cross-dressing alien sex fiends and addictive glam-rock score. The legendary stage show, which has thrilled and scandalized audiences across the globe, now beams into your backyard for one night only: This Halloween XES Lounge proudly presents a live, fully costumed concert version of the show featuring a four-piece rock band and cast members from the record-breaking European tour.
The concert version stars XES’ own saucy cocktail waiter Paul Pecorino as everyone’s favorite Transylvanian transvestite, Dr. Frank N Furter — a role he played across Europe to great critical acclaim for almost three years. “We were like rock stars over there! Now we’re cocktail waiters,” Paul says, laughing. But don’t let his self-deprecating modesty fool you; off-Broadway, the actor has starred in other queer faves, including Making Porn with Ryan Idol and The Crumple Zone opposite last week’s HX coverboy, Mario Cantone. Rocky Horror creator Richard O’Brien also authorized Paul’s 30th anniversary solo tribute CD, Perfectly Frank, which reimagines the musical’s cult hits in funky new arrangements.
But it’s not just killer tunes that made the subversive little-show-that-could a worldwide phenomenon. “The Rocky Horror Show offered a very accepting environment for all misfits — a world without judgment,” says Drue Pennella, who plays Eddie and Dr. Scott. “Suddenly, freaks were the cool people, and they had something to teach the ‘normal’ people.”
Rowdy and passionate audience participation has helped fan the flames. “Audiences can be whoever they want,” Drue continues. “I’ve seen married men dressed as Janet!” Aside from embodying their favorite characters, XES patrons are encouraged to use all the appropriate props and paraphernalia. “Bring it on,” Paul taunts. “It’s not our job to clean up the mess!”
The XES presentation promises other sexy surprises as well. “My Frank has a leather fetish,” Paul reveals, “so expect Rocky to be a hot, hairy daddy!” After the show, Paul-as-Frank hosts a “Best Rocky Costume Contest” for a $100 first prize and giveaways, and it’s no coincidence that the randy role demands that a boy slip into skivvies. But how will the lucky winner be determined? “The hotter the better,” he says, drooling slightly. “A nice chest, arms, ass — ooh, thighs are good, too!” And that’s just Paul being perfectly frank.
HX, October 2004.