Frankie Grande and the cast of “Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show” at Bucks County Playhouse | Photo by Mark Garvin

BH: How excited are you to be back playing the iconic and highly acclaimed role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter? Were you hoping that it could happen again after such an amazing run last year?

FG: OMG, I am beyond excited to step back into Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter’s corset! It’s one of the most thrilling and freeing roles I’ve ever had the chance to perform. After the magic of last year, I was definitely hoping this opportunity would come back around. When the stars align like this, you just have to dive in!

BH: Bucks County Playhouse has such a long and rich history – is there anything specific you love about performing on this stage?

FG: The history here is iconic, and you can feel it the moment you step on stage. There’s something so intimate and electric about the space—it really connects you to the audience. Plus, the whole vibe of Bucks County is pure charm and creativity. It feels like you’re part of something really special every time you perform.

BH: Last year’s production broke Bucks County Playhouse box office records and the show received such praise and acclaim – What can audience members expect this year from the cast and show?

FG: We’re turning up the heat even more this year, darling! Expect bigger energy, even more fabulous costumes, and some exciting new moments from the cast. And of course, we’ll keep that interactive, campy, Rocky Horror spirit alive. It’s going to be a wild ride from start to finish—don’t dream it, be it, right?

BH: What is your favorite number to perform in the show?

FG: Ooooh, that’s a tough one! I mean, performing “Sweet Transvestite” is everything, obviously! It’s such a blast bringing the house down with that one. But I also love the emotional complexity of “I’m Going Home”—it’s such a vulnerable moment, and I adore balancing the character’s fabulous exterior with that inner softness.

BH: Have you always been a fan of “The Rocky Horror Show?” Is there anything you like to bring that is your own unique flair to this character?

FG: Yes, honey, I’ve been obsessed since forever! Rocky Horror is such a cultural phenomenon, and being able to step into Dr. Frank’s heels feels like the ultimate tribute. I definitely bring a bit of my own sparkle to the role—it’s all about celebrating queerness, freedom, and joy! I want the audience to feel like they’re in a world where they can let loose and be exactly who they are.

BH: You are a sensation on social media and the cast reels promoting the show have been so fun to watch. Are you and the cast having as much fun together as it seems? Were you all able to just pick up right where you left off?

FG: YASSS, it’s just as fun as it looks! This cast is like family at this point, and we totally picked up right where we left off. Honestly, the energy backstage is almost as wild as the show itself—lots of laughter, lots of love, and a lot of glitter!

BH: You have been performing on and off Broadway for years now. While you also have done many TV and movie appearances and roles, is there something special and unique you love about live theater?

FG: Live theater is pure magic. There’s nothing like the adrenaline of performing in front of an audience and knowing every night will be a little different. It’s that connection with the audience—their energy fuels you, and you get to create something new and electric every single performance. It’s absolutely unmatched.

BH: Can you share a bit about your nonprofit work with Broadway in South Africa?

FG: Of course! Broadway in South Africa is so close to my heart. It was all about using the arts to empower young people and give them the tools to express themselves creatively. We worked with incredible kids, helping them find their voices and tell their stories through performance. It was such a meaningful project, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.

BH: Here at Bucks Happening, we are kinda HUGE fans of Bucks County and all it has to offer. Can you share with us a few things you love about Bucks? Any favorite restaurants, coffee shops, or boutiques that you love to visit when you are here?

FG: Bucks County is such a dream! I love wandering through all the cute little boutiques—there’s always something unique to find. And the food? Don’t even get me started! I love grabbing ice cream at MOO HOPE and then treating myself to something fabulous for dinner at The Greenhouse. I also LOVE the Playhouse Deck… the views and food are great. And let’s be real, Hale and I never say no to exploring more cute shops and cafes.