Men and women in fishnet stockings, short skirts and black and white maid's outfits, a bloodied bride, a pimp in dark glasses and a time traveller were among the guests at Richard O'Brien's birthday bash at Baycourt in Tauranga on Friday night.

By dressing up and turning out they helped the entertainer not only celebrate 75 Years of Frock ‘n' Roll, but also raise some serious funds for the Starship Foundation – estimated to be more than $30,000 from ticket sales and the auction of Richard's art work.

It may be more than 40 years since Richard wrote and launched The Rocky Horror Show in Britain but it continues to have a world-wide cult following, evidenced by the hundreds of revelers from throughout the North Island who packed Baycourt's Theatre.

Richard, who donated every dollar from the admission price to Starship, was joined on stage by friend and veteran broadcaster Mark Sainsbury who interviewed the star about his life.

During the interview, and much to Richard's surprise, video clips from a number of world famous stars wishing him a happy birthday were played. Among those sending special greetings were Stephen Fry, Sir Ian McKellen and New Zealand's Lucy Lawless.

They spoke of Richard's talent, his kindness and how Rocky Horror had helped break down social barriers for the gay community.

Richard spoke candidly about his life and to Mark's questions about his unconventional choice of dress – white tights boots, pink top and pearls – replied he is finally comfortable and happy with who he is.

'But I have to say if I saw me walking down the street I would have to wonder...” he laughed.

Craig McLachlan and Richard O'Brien on stage at last night's '75 Years of Frock ‘n' Roll'.

In the second half of the show Richard, accompanied by local blues band Kokomo and Grant Winterburn, one of New Zealand's leading pianist, sang a number of his own songs, including a new composition.

The audience erupted as award winning Australian actor, musician, singer and composer Craig McLachlan entered the stage – dressed in a ripped t-shirt, heels, fishnet stockings and very short shorts.

As well as starring in Australian soap Neighbours, Craig played Frank N. Furter in the Australia stage version of Richard's Rocky Horror Show twice, in 1993 and again in 2014.

Much to the delight of the audience, he brought 'Frank' to Baycourt's stage, in an energetic performance of Rocky songs.

Richard's wife Sabrina presented Richard with a birthday cake and of course the audience sang 'Happy Birthday” followed by a rendition of 'Time Warp” to shake the Baycourt rafters.

Richard ended by encouraging everyone to donate their 2017 birthdays to Starship.

'Invite your friends around, tell them not to give you presents but charge them a $1 for a piece of birthday cake and donate the money to Starship to help with the wonderful work they do for our children.”

Time Traveller and Steam Punk fan Christine Oates of Katikati.

Derek Jacombs, Colleen Gunn, Warren Houston, Kim Scanlen and Chrissie Richardson dressed to impress.

Sandy Homer, Corrie Jamison, Marilyn Dunn and Steven Ward.

In fishnet stocking and feather boas, Clare Dunn and Maria Gage ready to enjoy Richard O'Brien's birthday party.

Richard Skelton and Jackie Sutton 'waiting” to impress at Richard O'Brien's birthday party.

Stepping out – Sarah Bate and Veronica Baker.

Carol Clothier and Max Greer.

'Hello Richard – I'm a fan,” Sir Ian McKellen said in the video played at Richard O'Brien's '75 Years of Frock ‘n' Roll' last night.

Lucy Lawless was among those to wish Richard O'Brien a happy birthday during last night's show.

SunMedia directors Brian and Claire Rogers with broadcaster Mark Sainsbury.

Craig McLachlan wowed the crowd at Richard O'Brien's '75 Years of Frock ‘n' Roll' last night.