The Rocky Horror Show is making its long-awaited return to New Zealand stages in 2026, with a sensational West End cast bringing the cult classic to Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington for strictly limited seasons.
Written 50 years by Richard O’Brien, The Rocky Horror Show has thrilled over 35 million theatregoers worldwide, has been performed in 30 countries, translated into 20 languages and is the longest continuously running contemporary musical in the world.
The international production will open at Auckland’s Civic Theatre on 26 February before heading to Christchurch’s Isaac Theatre Royal from 11 March and finishing at Wellington’s St James Theatre on 18 March.
Tickets go on pre-sale next Tuesday, with general sales opening Thursday via Ticketmaster and Ticketek.
The announcement marks the show’s first return to New Zealand in 15 years. Written 50 years ago by New Zealand-born Richard O’Brien, the musical has become one of the most iconic stage productions in theatre history, having been performed in 30 countries and translated into 20 languages. It is also the longest continuously running contemporary musical in the world.
The show produced by Trafalgar Theatre Productions and GMG Productions, which brought The Play That Goes Wrong, Madagascar The Musical, and Beauty and the Beast to New Zealand.
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The 2026 tour is produced by Trafalgar Theatre Productions and GMG Productions, companies known for bringing major international hits to New Zealand, including The Play That Goes Wrong, Madagascar The Musical, and Beauty and the Beast.
Directed by Christopher Luscombe, the musical follows Brad and Janet, two college students who stumble upon the eerie home of Dr Frank’n’Furter. Audiences can expect all the iconic songs including Sweet Transvestite, Dammit Janet, and the legendary Time Warp.
Richard O’Brien said, “What a great joy it is to have the world’s favourite rock and roll, rainbow musical, right back where it gestated. Break out the fishnets.”
The show is known for its high energy, audience participation, and costume-filled performances. It runs for two hours including an interval, and carries a 12+ age recommendation.
With limited runs in each city, producers are urging fans to join the waitlist and secure tickets early to avoid missing out.
