Luke Evans Teases Boundary-Pushing Drag Performance in Broadway Debut as Frank-N-Furter

Luke Evans is set to make his Broadway debut starring as the iconic Dr. Frank-N-Furter in a revival of Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show, produced by Roundabout Theatre Company at Studio 54. Previews begin on March 26, 2026, with opening night on April 23, 2026, and the limited engagement runs through June 21, 2026.

In a recent interview, Evans shared his enthusiasm for embodying the role's signature drag elements, stating he is “very excited” to do drag and adding, “We’ll see how far they let me go with it.” This playful comment underscores his anticipation for pushing creative boundaries in a character renowned for its flamboyant, gender-bending style, which has long resonated within LGBTQ+ communities.

Directed by Tony Award-winner Sam Pinkleton, the revival aims to capture the show's freaky, party-like essence at the legendary Studio 54 venue. Pinkleton described the project as an opportunity to “crack this untamable classic open with the razor-sharp Luke Evans at the center” and to “open a dimension to another possible reality,” emphasizing its appeal to “tender weirdos.” The creative team includes choreographer Ani Taj, music director Kris Kukul, scenic designer Dots, costume designer David I. Reynoso, lighting designer Jane Cox, sound designer Brian Ronan, and hair and makeup designer Alberto “Albee” Alvarado.

The production will feature late-night performances, including a 10pm show on May 20, 2026, and 9pm shows on May 30, June 13, and June 20, 2026, aligning with the show's tradition as a midnight movie and participatory event. Full casting beyond Evans remains forthcoming.

Richard O’Brien, the show's creator, expressed delight at the casting, saying it is “music to my ears” to have fine actors bring the story of “dress-up and make-believe, sing and dance” to New York City, urging audiences to “break out the fishnets and let’s have a party.”

Evans, known for film roles such as Gaston in Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast and Bard in The Hobbit trilogy, began his career in London’s West End with musicals including Taboo, Rent, Miss Saigon, and Avenue Q. After focusing on screen work, including television series like The Alienist and Echo 3, he returned to the stage in 2023 for Backstairs Billy at the Duke of York’s Theatre, co-starring Penelope Wilton.

As an openly gay actor, Evans brings personal authenticity to Frank-N-Furter, a pansexual mad scientist whose drag persona challenges norms—a role that has been a staple for queer performers and audiences since the show's 1973 premiere.

The Rocky Horror Show has been in continuous production worldwide for over 52 years, seen by more than 40 million people in 15 languages, making it the longest-running musical production. Its cult status stems from songs like “The Time Warp,” “Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me,” and “Hot Patootie,” which encourage audience participation, costumes, and unapologetic self-expression.

For LGBTQ+ individuals, the show represents a safe space for exploring gender fluidity and sexuality, with Frank-N-Furter embodying liberation from heteronormative constraints. Evans' drag-forward approach signals a contemporary revival that honors this legacy while inviting new generations. Recent celebrations, such as Evans' December 2025 rooftop party at PUBLIC Hotel with Chrome Horse Society Tequila and a performance of “Only One of You,” have heightened buzz around his theatrical return.

This production closes Roundabout’s 2025-2026 season, following shows like Archduke and Fallen Angels, amid renovations to the Todd Haimes Theatre. Evans' debut promises to reignite Rocky Horror’s spirit of joy, inclusivity, and defiance in the heart of Broadway.