Richard O'Brien's 70th birthday bash promises to fulfill its billing as a night to remember.
The one-time itinerant immigrant, who gained world-wide fame and notoriety with his Rocky Horror Picture Show, promises It's Party Time will be a night of unbridled music, fun and entertainment.
"Let's face it," he says,"you're only 70 once and there's nothing optimistic to be said for old age. We may as well all have a great time.
"It seems churlish not to."
Hamilton's Founders Theatre will likely never be the same after the March 17, one-off concert which aims to propel Richard into another 70 rollicking years and raise funds for the child-focused Starship Foundation as well as celebrate his recent induction as a fully-fledged New Zealand citizen.
Richard will showcase music from Rocky Horror alongside a catalogue of songs he has penned with co-writer Richard Hartley.
He promises everything will be 'in the best possible taste' and is encouraging the audience, his stage musicians and backing singers to dress delightfully ... 'nothing fancy, just a red and white theme'.
"There will be frivolity, old favourites and new songs," says Richard, all performed with pizzazz, million dollar legs and outrageous style.
"Nothing puerile, only slightly ribald; and possibly a smattering of spasmodic Tourrette's."
He hints at musings; reflections on a life will spent but in a light and entertaining atmosphere.
The man who wrote what has become known as the world's favourite rock'n' roll picture is genuine in his desire to personally finance the theatrical party night in order to maximize the Starship donation.
He is generous in his admiration for the live, seven strong showband, based around the well-known Kokomo, and his team of four backing singers.
Richard is also thankful for the professional judgement brought to the show production by musical director Grant Winterburn.
What's next for new citizen O'Brien?
"I would love to go into a studio and record an album of jazz standards. Wouldn't that be something!"
