On Oct. 16, the Capitol Theatre in Greenville honorarily put on a double-feature showing of “Rocky Horror Picture Show” in the spirit of Halloween. Like most theatres, live or on the screen, they had an earlier showtime of 8 p.m. and one at 10 p.m. for the night crawlers and die-hard fans of the cult classic.
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” was first released in 1975, starring Tim Curry as Frank N. Furter, Susan Sarandon as Janet Weiss, Barry Botswick as Brad Majors and rock artist Meatloaf as Eddie (Marvin Lee Aday).
The story followed Brad and Janet who fall victim to a flat tire in the midst of a torrential downpour. They put their hope of safety in the hands of a transvestite scientist (Frank N. Furter) and his followers/minions, who eventually corrupt the couple’s innocence by the end of the film. The film is known for its risqué and mature themes, but this isn’t the film’s main attraction.
The best part for those who are seasoned in “Rocky Horror” culture is the audience participation. Audience members of the show are invited to yell obscenities and one-liners that correspond with the actor’s performances and lines, most of the time adding even more lewd and dirty comedic value.
“A long long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, God said: ‘Let there be lips,’” said the audience as the film commenced, and then a pair of lips, decorated with bright red lipstick, appears on the screen, singing the opening number: “Science Fiction / Double Feature.”
Most theatres also provide prop bags for the audience for a small up-charge, usually around $5. The Capitol Theatre’s goody bags included newspapers to put over our heads when Janet and Brad trek through the rain to the mysterious castle, noise makers to celebrate the creation of Rocky, party hats to wear for the festivity of dinner-time and confetti poppers to rejoice Rocky’s and Frank Furter’s marriage.
Once the hit song “Time Warp” ensued, everyone in the audience, adorned in their best costumes and lingerie, sprang to their feet and jumped to the left, stepped to the right, put their hands on their hips, and brought their knees in tight. Then, did a pelvic thrust, that really drives you insa-a-a-a-ne. “Let’s do the time warp again!” rang throughout the theatre amidst the sporadic dancing of everyone at the show.
If you have never seen “Rocky Horror,” I encourage you to do so, provided you are ready for the most thrilling and chilling film experience. It’s an interactive and danceable show that most tend to make a yearly outing just for the community of fun-loving, creative people who will celebrate any and all differences. It’s a great opportunity to feel welcomed, while having the time of your life.
