Rocky Horror star marries

Creator and star of the Rocky Horror Show Richard O'Brien married his long-term German girlfriend Sabrina Graf at his Bay of Plenty home yesterday.

Richard OBrien and Sabrina Graf married at their home in the Bay of Plenty yesterday.

A group of around 80 invited guests travelled from as far as Christchurch, London and America arrived to see Richard and Sabrina wed at the couple's two and a half acre rural property.

A string trio played as the guests arrived.

Breaking with wedding convention, guests were dressed in all-white - tuxedos, tennis shorts and flowing dresses - while Sabrina wore burgundy red and Richard modelled an elegant blue jacket and skin-tight ensemble.

His attire was kept a secret until he walked down the aisle.

Sabrina's father flew in from Germany and Richard's three children, as well as grandson Elvis, arrived from London and Toronto. The couple was married in a courtyard behind the house, exchanging simple and heartfelt vows which left barely a dry eye amongst the assembled guests, most of whom were as overcome by the emotion of the moment as the bride and groom.

When the ceremony concluded guests cheered while two flower girls showered the happy couple with red rose petals.

There were Arabian-style tents on the lawn where locals mingled happily with international film producers and old friends, whom Richard grew up with in New Zealand, including Mark Sainsbury and other Kiwi celebrities.

Tauranga Gypsy jazz quartet Bonjour Swing entertained the gathering playing The Lady Is a Tramp and Stardust.

Guests and family then assembled at black and white themed tables for a veritable feast of characteristic New Zealand tucker - roast lamb and traditional apple pie with hokey pokey ice cream– all presented on shared platters as a celebration of life, love, family and friends.

Later in the evening Tauranga musicians whom Richard has performed with over recent years, including his singing saxophonist brother Rob Smith, keyboard MD of the Rocky Horror Show Grant Winterburn, well-known blues band Kokomo, and ukulele group The KokoLadies offered musical tributes.

Saxophones and trumpets, harmonicas and guitars rang across the harbour towards Mount Maunganui and out to the still deep waters of the Pacific Ocean.

It was the last day of daylight saving and as the clear sky drew dark and evening set in Richard sang Science Fiction from the Rocky Horror Show. A chorus of voices joined him in joyful harmony. The music, wine and good times continued long into the night.

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1 comment

Wedding to remember

Posted on 07-04-2013 22:01 | By dreamingofacruise

How nice. Wish I was invited


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