Horror camp
Playing Brad in ACT’s production of Rocky Horror Picture Show is Adair Bates’ first lead role since transitioning. Bates, left, moved to Dallas to be able to live authentically as a trans man. (Photo courtesy of Art Centre Theatre) Adair Bates makes a statement with his first leading role in Rocky Horror RICH LOPEZ | Staff writerrich@dallasvoice.com Tech week has been underway for Art Centre Theatre’s The Rocky Horror Show, and for actor Adair Bates — well, he’s very stressed.
He chalks it up to his natural anxiety. But then something happens when he takes the stage as Brad in rehearsal: All that anxiety goes away.
Opening night on Friday, Oct. 14, should be no different. Because Bates is ready for his moment. “I’m so focused that I get in my head, but it’s OK,” he said by phone. “It’s just the right balance when I go onstage.” The Rocky Horror Show at ACT in Plano opens tonight and runs through Oct.
30. This is a big opportunity for Bates — one that he’s had a whole different kind of anxiety about. “My first worry was that I’m a trans guy playing Brad, and I wondered how people would react,” Bates admitted. “Then I remember: It’s Rocky!
