Hamilton readies itself for Riff Raff - TVNZ.co.nz

Source: http://tvnz.co.nz/view/news_entertainment_story_skin/461022%3fformat=html

26 November 2004

Hamilton is set to get freaky when a statue celebrating the Rocky Horror Picture Show is unveiled.

The $125,000 bronze statue is of the transvestite character Riff Raff played in the original show by former Hamilton man Richard O'Brien, who also created the show nearly 30 years ago.

When the statue was first suggested it caused an outcry from some people who thought it was inappropriate to be displayed in the city.

But, Richard O'Brien says the objections to the statue are very weak.

Hamilton will celebrate with an evening of festivities on Friday as Victoria Street will be turned into a street party from 10pm.

O'Brien will lead the Time Warp after unveiling the statue at the stroke of midnight.

Rocky Horror costume is being encouraged.

Besides Rocky Horror O'Brien has also appeared in several major stage productions in London's West End, is well-known in the UK as a TV presenter, and has had a varied career in film and TV.

His stage performances include UK productions of Hair, The Little Shop of Horrors, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and his own show, Disgracefully Yours, at the Edinburgh Festival.