Luke Evans, who portrays Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the Broadway revival of "The Rocky Horror Show," has revealed that the corset he wears for the role is so constricting it requires him to use oxygen tanks between songs.
"The corset constricts you," Evans, 47, told Seth Meyers on "Late Night." "And of course, I’m singing these big rock songs and having to sing big, big notes."
The Welsh actor performs up to eight shows a week in the elaborate costume, which also includes fishnet stockings, a wig, and towering heels. He described the experience as challenging, especially when performing strenuous numbers.
"In the wings, I have oxygen tanks," Evans explained, noting that the theater can become warm, particularly on humid New York nights. "I run off and they’re dabbing me down and I’m taking a big gulp of oxygen."
Despite the discomfort of the corset, Evans found the costume's signature platform boots surprisingly comfortable. He attributed this to the grips on the soles and five weeks of rehearsal spent practicing on tiptoe. In the heels, he estimates he stands around 6-foot-8.
"My legs have never looked better," the actor joked, adding that he can now forgo leg day workouts.
Costume designer David I. Reynoso, a Tony nominee for the revival, created much of Dr. Frank-N-Furter's wardrobe from unconventional materials, with one dress notably trimmed with ribbons made from trash bags. Reynoso aimed to capture a spirit of resourcefulness in the production's aesthetic.
The revival opened on April 23 at Studio 54. Evans received his first Tony nomination for his performance in the role, which marks his Broadway debut after a career primarily in film.
He performed "Sweet Transvestite" in costume on the June 7 CBS telecast of the Tony Awards. While he attended the ceremony in a Balenciaga tuxedo, the award for his category went to Joshua Henry for "Ragtime."
"The Rocky Horror Show" is scheduled to play at Studio 54 through November 29. This is not the first instance of extreme lacing impacting performers; Kim Kardashian also worked with corsetier Mr. Pearl on breathing techniques before her 2019 Met Gala appearance.