For local actor Ricky Martinez, Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror Show” was a calling.

“It’s one of those shows that you kind of have to do as a performer,” said Martinez, who portrays character Brad Majors.

Despite the calling, he decided to audition later in the process.

“It was really a spur-of-the-moment kind of thing, I decided to audition last-minute,” said Martinez. “My voice was shot. It was a crazy audition process.”

Martinez is one of many actors for this year’s installation of Aurora Arts Theater’s annual staging of “Rocky.”

“With only a month and a half to stage a full-length musical, the cast and crew have done an outstanding job,” said director Dylan Rios.

“Rocky” centers around the couple Brad Majors and Janet Weiss as they traverse the castle of the alien mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter after their tire springs a leak. Majors and Weiss happen to enter just as Frank unveils his newest creation, a heavily muscled man named Rocky.

After its initial staging in London in 1973, the production has constantly been performed. A 1975 film adaptation, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” has become a cult classic. Despite the popular depiction in the film, the production has been ever evolving.

This year’s production will be taking on a voodoo theme.

“From fortune telling at the top of the show to the unique voodoo-inspired costumes, set design, and more, we’re infusing this production with the vibrant, spooky, and magical essence of NOLA,” said Rios.

“Our goal is to make the audience feel like they’re stepping into another world right here in the Coastal Bend.”

Martinez’s portrayal of Brad has been informed by a famous comedian.

“I just think about Rick Moranis in ‘Little Shop [of Horrors]’ mostly,” Martinez said. “I try not to base my character off of one portrayal and more like consume as I can and take the best bits that I like from each one.”

Rios notes his gratitude for the quality of the cast.

“Their ability to move both on and off the stage has been inspiring,” Rios said.

Moreover, this production process has solidified Rios’ beliefs on the value of collaboration.

“Making sure every voice is heard has been a central focus of this production,” Rios said.

“It’s been an honor to incorporate some of the brilliant ideas brought forth by the cast and crew.”

Tickets for the first eight performances have already sold out, however more tickets will be sold later. Aurora Arts Theater will announce the tickets on their Facebook and Instagram, @auroraartstheater.

“Rocky” opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20 and runs for Fridays and Saturdays until its Saturday, Nov. 2. In October, each Saturday will have two performances, one at 7 p.m. and the other at 11 p.m.

There will also be a performance on Halloween night, Thursday, Oct. 31, at 7:30 p.m. For the Oct. 12 performance, ensemble member Christopher Salinas will take the place of Ricky Martinez for Brad Majors.

“I sincerely hope that our interpretation, with its core message of embracing your life unapologetically, resonates with everyone who comes through our doors this fall,” Rios said,