In Part Two of a series of interviews with the cast of Washington Savoyards’The Rocky Horror Show - we meet John Loughney, who is playing Riff Raff.
John Loughney (Riff Raff).
Joel: Why did you want to be part of this production?
John: For many reasons. 1) The great team of Jay and Jason – I worked with them on The Last 5 Years at 1st Stage and Limelight Theatre a few years back and loved the experience. So, that was a no brainer. 2) Savoyards has always been on my radar as a group I wanted to work with 3) It’s close to home – I love that. My dog loves that 4) Lastly, it’s Rocky Horror. It’s just plain fun.
Tell us about your role and why you wanted to play him?
Who doesn’t love Riff Raff, really? In the story of Frankenstein he is Igor, the servant. As an actor, there is just a lot you can do with a role like this.
How do you relate to this character?
Ummm. I really don’t. At all. He may be the exact opposite of me in every way possible.
How did you prepare to play your character?
This is still a work in progress – ask me after we open. Costumes and wigs are going to have a great impact on all of us.
Talk about working with Director Jay Brock and how he has helped them shape their performances.
Jay has prompted us to have fun with it – it’s not the most profound show you will ever see. If we aren’t having fun on stage I’m pretty sure the audience won’t be thrilled. I think this rings true for any show, but this one comes with a cult following and a different added pressure.
Have they worked with anyone in the cast before and where and why they enjoy working with them?
Autumn Seavey Hicks, who plays my cohort and sister, Magenta – we worked together on National Pastime at Keegan. Hearing she was cast in this role only made my being part of the cast THAT much better. I mean, I couldn’t ask for a better “elbow sex” partner. Otherwise, I haven’t worked with any of the other actors, but I have admired much of their previous work.
What are some of the challenges they are experiencing in rehearsals?
Who knew Riff Raff sang so high? I didn’t. I’ve never sung a role that pretty much sings A’s the entire time. Not cool, Richard O’Brien!
Why is The Rocky Horror Show so popular today?
For the same reason shows like West Side Story, Hairspray, and RENT are popular. They all put a twist on an old story and have some pretty awesome music. As I mentioned, The Rocky Horror Show isn’t profound and is quite outlandish at times, but that is a big reason why it’s so iconic. You can’t take it too seriously.
What are you doing next on the stage after this production closes?
That is still TBD. I have my eyes on a few things. We shall see.
LINKS
Doing the Time Warp: Meet the Cast of Washington Savoyards’ The Rocky Horror Show: Part One: Autumn Seavy.
The Washington Savoyards names ‘Guest Narrators’ for The Rocky Horror Show.
Doing the Time Warp: Part One – Director Jay Brock on His Vision for The Washington Savoyards’ The Rocky Horror Show.
Doing the Time Warp: Part Two – Director Jay Brock on Selecting the Leads from The Washington Savoyard’s The Rocky Horror Show.
About Author Joel Markowitz
Joel Markowitz is the Publisher and Editor of DCMetroTheaterArts. Joel is a regular guest on 'The Lunch and Judy Show' radio program starring Judy Stadt in NYC. Joel founded The Ushers Theatre Going Group in the DC area in 1990, which has now merged with Broadway Bound Meetup. He wrote a column for 5 years called ‘Theatre Schmooze’ and recorded podcast interviews for DC Theatre Scene, and was the Editor at MD Theatre Guide before coming to DCMetroTheaterArts. His work can also be seen and heard in "Columns" and "Podcast" on BroadwayStars. Joel also wrote a monthly preview of what was about to open in DC area theatres for BroadwayWorld. He is an avid film and Buffalo Sabres fan and is an advocate for children's theatre.