But the Cliffs Pavilion is bucking that trend this week with the Rocky Horror Show making a welcome return.
I have no idea how many shows I have seen in Southend down the years.
However, Monday’s night’s excitement was definitely the first time I had ever seen the audience on its feet during the first half of the performance.
Somehow or other, I had never seen the Rocky Horror Show before but I immediately found myself continually giggling throughout the evening.
Bonkers but brilliant would be the best way to describe what is clearly a cult show.
There are stand out performances wherever you look and not just on stage either as many of the funniest lines and the best costumes were from fans of the show in the audience.
Most of what was said cannot be repeated in a family newspaper but it is still making me laugh even now.
The narrator Nathan Caton is involved in most of the interaction with the crowd and his quick wit as a comedian makes him perfect for this role.
But he is definitely not alone in catching the eye.
Connor Carson as Brad, Lauren Chia as Janet and Job Greuter as Riff Raff are all superb as is the show’s biggest name Jason Donovan as Frank n Furter.
He was captivating throughout and a big shout out must also go to Morgan Jackson as Rocky.
Previously at the Cliffs, he was Peter Pan in panto but this is as far away from that role as possible and he does it brilliantly.
Add to that, the top notch choreography plus some well known songs and dances and this is the right up with the silliest yet most satisfying ways to start 2025.
Just remember to bend your knees in time!
>The Rocky Horror Show is on at the Cliffs Pavilion until Saturday.
Tickets are available via the website.