Jason Donovan talks return to Rocky Horror as Frank-N-Furter ahead of Liverpool shows

This December, The Rocky Horror Show returns to Liverpool Playhouse, and fans have an extra reason to celebrate: Jason Donovan is back in one of his most iconic roles, Dr. Frank-N-Furter.

Also starring in The Rocky Horror Show, Liverpool legends Leanne Campbell and Pete Price are joining as Narrator, adding a local twist to this beloved production.

The show runs from 3 December 2024 – 4 January 2025, bringing a mix of camp and cult-classic vibes to Liverpool’s festive season.

Stepping back into Frank-N-Furter’s fishnets is more than just reprising a role for Jason… it’s reconnecting with a part of himself that first blossomed over 25 years ago.

Jason Donovan said:

“In a nutshell, I’m a fan. I love the show; I love the music; I love the character.

“I was touring my own show about five years ago and included ‘Sweet Transvestite’ from Rocky as a key moment in my musical career. It went down a storm.”

Rocky Horror follows the newly engaged Brad and Janet as they stumble into the bizarre world of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist with a penchant for flamboyance and a mission to create his perfect “Rocky.”

For Donovan, returning to this world in his mid-50s brings a unique sense of satisfaction and a nod to his personal journey. Reflecting on his first tour, he said, “I don’t feel uncomfortable playing Frank at 56—and, of course, I have personal reasons for being grateful to the show.”

It was during a late-90s tour that Donovan met Angela Malloch, a stage manager on the production who later became his wife.

Their relationship began backstage, but soon turned serious when Angela became pregnant. “If the relationship had any chance of working,” Donovan said, “she told me… I would have to give up the self-indulgent hedonistic lifestyle of the 90s and take greater control of my life. And I did.”

This change didn’t happen overnight, but Donovan ultimately found himself committed to both his family and his career. The couple married in 2008 and now have three children.

Jason Donovan said:

“One of the reasons I love Rocky is because it’s a short show. It says everything it needs to say and nothing more.

“There’s no unnecessary padding. It means nobody gets bored and you leave them wanting more.

“I spend a lot more time in physio these days, something I’ve put in as an appendix in my contract!

“Mental health and physical fitness go hand-in-hand for me… This life is a long journey, you hope. My dad gave me the tool of a good work ethic linked to physical activity.”

Jason Donovan added:

“Although my vocals were never my strongest point back in the day, since Joseph, I have worked really hard. Rocky now plays to my strengths… More me, really!”

Donovan is no stranger to the touring lifestyle, having performed in major productions across genres, from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

The demanding schedule sees him touring from Liverpool and beyond, but he’s a seasoned pro when it comes to finding familiar comforts in new cities. “On tour, I wake up a little later; there are no domestic chores to tackle… and I’m a seasoned professional when it comes to locating any M&S!” he said.

For Liverpool audiences, Donovan’s return as Frank-N-Furter offers a unique opportunity to see the legendary performer in one of his most loved roles – a role he cherishes not only for its camp appeal but for the personal and professional journey it represents.

“As long as I have my family and my health, as long as I have a good life/work balance, I’m happy,” he reflects. “I like to think I work to live, not the other way around.”

So, as Liverpool gears up to celebrate the season with a bit of Rocky Horror sparkle, don’t miss the chance to catch Jason Donovan, Leanne Campbell, and Pete Price bringing this cult classic to life at the Playhouse from December 3 to January 4.