So says Richard O’Brien, the creator of cult hit The Rocky Horror Picture Show, who is back with a new satirical musical.
The Kingdom of Bling opens his "celebration of kindness" tour to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his classic.
Inspired by the madness of United States politics and the ripple effect it has, the 82-year-old Tauranga-based playwright and actor announced the world premiere of The Kingdom of Bling ahead of the November 5 US presidential elections.
The show’s 16 stops includes the Oamaru Opera House on October 13.
The Kingdom of Bling is set in "a time of confusion, when so many madly strange beliefs collide," O’Brien said.
"A time when kindness had been demonised".
The creation of the new show was a reaction to divisive politics.
"One of the good things about going on the tour with this is that I can shout out for liberal kindness and the rainbow banner.
"We have to stand up. It’s time to stand up and shout out loud for liberal democracy.
"I used to stay awake at night worrying about the Trump situation ... everything that comes out of the man’s mouth is offensive. I don’t quite understand it. He has no moral values whatsoever."
O’Brien was inspired to write a show about unity and inclusiveness, "a fairy tale rather than a heady political kind of message".
"The message is there. All we’re dedicated to do is going on and having a good time. Actually, I’m going to insist that everyone has a good time," he said.
O’Brien reprises his role as the narrator alongside an ensemble cast. The Kingdom of Bling exhibits the "wacky hallmarks" of Rocky Horror while featuring giants, a menacing fox, trolls and the king of the land, the obnoxious "He".
The musical is backed by a rock band, with original songs in the style that made Rocky Horror so popular.
O’Brien said the show is similar to a radio concert and it will "be like watching live radio ... like The Goon Show".The second act features a Q&A where O’Brien will talk about his life, The Rocky Horror Show, the theatre and inspiration for his latest project.
All of the royalties from the show will go to Starship Children's Hospital in perpetuity.
