At a traditional Rocky Horror Picture Show screening, audiences don’t just watch; they actively participate. The accepted arsenal includes rice, water pistols, newspapers, flashlights, rubber gloves, party noisemakers, toilet paper, toast, sponges, and party hats. Each prop accompanies a specific scene, transforming the cinema into a chaotic, joyous, and unforgettable experience.
Decoding the Chaos: A Prop-by-Prop Breakdown
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is more than just a movie; it’s a ritual. Each prop used during the screening serves a specific purpose, enhancing the audience’s engagement with the film and contributing to the overall theatrical experience. Understanding the rationale behind each item is key to proper participation and avoiding any potential embarrassment.
Rice: The Wedding Bells Begin to Ring
As Brad and Janet walk out of the church after their friend’s wedding at the beginning of the movie, the audience showers the theater with rice. This simulates the traditional wedding send-off and marks the beginning of their ill-fated journey. Using uncooked rice is crucial; cooked rice can be messy and potentially damage the theater’s seating or equipment.
Water Pistols: The Stormy Night
During the rainy storm scenes that plague Brad and Janet’s car trouble, the audience unleashes a barrage of water pistols. The goal is to mimic the downpour and further immerse everyone in the cinematic experience. Aim carefully to avoid soaking fellow audience members who might not appreciate a surprise shower. Small water pistols are preferable to super soakers.
Newspapers: Seeking Shelter From the Rain
When Brad and Janet cover their heads with newspapers to shield themselves from the storm, the audience does the same. Holding a newspaper over your head during this scene is not only interactive but also a classic visual gag. Many theaters will encourage you to use the newspaper as a “hat” and tear it apart during the song “The Time Warp”.
Flashlights: Let There Be Light!
The audience shines flashlights during the song “Over at the Frankenstein Place,” mimicking the lightning strikes that illuminate the castle. The effect is enhanced when everyone coordinates, creating a dazzling display of light that amplifies the drama. Make sure your flashlight has working batteries to avoid being left in the dark.
Rubber Gloves: A Creation is Born
During Frank-N-Furter’s creation scene, the audience snaps on rubber gloves to emulate his own. As he snaps his gloves to signify the completion of his creation, the audience does the same. This simple act of mimicry highlights the audience’s connection to the mad scientist and his bizarre experiment.
Noisemakers: A Celebration of Life
When Rocky is “born,” or rather, created, the audience celebrates with noisemakers. This cacophony of sound mirrors the jubilant atmosphere in Frank-N-Furter’s lab, adding to the revelry and chaos. Be mindful of your fellow audience members and avoid excessive noise that might detract from the experience.
Toilet Paper: Great Scott!
When Dr. Everett Scott appears, the audience throws toilet paper rolls into the air, yelling “Great Scott!” This tradition originated from the movie’s line and has become a staple of Rocky Horror screenings. Some theaters discourage this due to cleanup challenges, so check with the venue beforehand.
Toast: Dinner is Served
During the dinner scene, the audience throws toast when Frank-N-Furter proposes a toast. This absurd act is a nod to the movie’s bizarre humor and adds another layer of audience participation. Small pieces of toast are preferred to full slices to minimize the mess. Some venues provide (or sell) small pieces of pre-cut toast.
Sponges: Cleaning Up the Mess
During another storm scene, the audience might throw sponges to further simulate the rain. This is a less common tradition but can be a fun addition to the experience, especially in venues that discourage the use of water pistols or have cleaning protocols in place.
Party Hats: A Festive Celebration
At the end, during the floor show, the audience dons party hats to celebrate the culmination of the bizarre events that have transpired. This adds a festive touch to the final scenes and reinforces the communal atmosphere of the screening.
FAQs: Your Burning Rocky Horror Questions Answered
Let’s dive deeper into some of the common questions surrounding Rocky Horror Picture Show participation.
H3: 1. Why do people throw things at the Rocky Horror Picture Show?
The practice stems from a desire to actively engage with the film rather than passively watch it. Throwing props, reciting lines, and performing callbacks create a shared experience, transforming the movie into a live performance and social event. It’s about immersion, participation, and shared absurdity.
H3: 2. Is it okay to throw things at the screen?
Generally, no, throwing things directly at the screen is discouraged as it can damage the equipment. Aim for the air or toward other audience members, but be mindful of those around you. Always check with the venue beforehand as rules can vary.
H3: 3. What if the theater doesn’t allow certain props?
Always check with the theater’s policies before bringing any props. Some venues may prohibit certain items due to cleanup concerns or potential damage. Respect their rules to ensure future screenings are allowed to continue. Alternative props or actions might be encouraged.
H3: 4. What’s the deal with the call backs?
Callbacks are audience responses to lines of dialogue in the film. These are often humorous or sarcastic remarks that add to the interactive experience. Knowing the common callbacks enhances your enjoyment.
H3: 5. How do I learn the callbacks?
Many resources are available online, including websites and videos that list common callbacks. Attending a Rocky Horror screening and listening to others is also a great way to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
H3: 6. Is there a proper etiquette for Rocky Horror screenings?
Yes! Be respectful of other audience members and the theater staff. Avoid throwing things directly at people’s faces or damaging the property. Know the theater’s rules and adhere to them. Most importantly, have fun and embrace the absurdity!
H3: 7. What should I wear to a Rocky Horror screening?
Costumes are highly encouraged! Dress as your favorite character or simply wear something comfortable and outrageous. Don’t be afraid to express yourself and get into the spirit of the event.
H3: 8. What if I’ve never been to a Rocky Horror screening before?
Don’t be intimidated! Most venues are welcoming to first-timers (often called “virgins”). Don’t hesitate to ask questions and observe what others are doing. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the experience!
H3: 9. Are there any Rocky Horror traditions I should be aware of besides the props and callbacks?
Many venues have pre-show performances or skits. These are often humorous interpretations of scenes from the movie. Be prepared to participate and cheer on the performers.
H3: 10. Where can I find Rocky Horror screenings?
Check local theater listings, community event calendars, and online forums dedicated to Rocky Horror. Many colleges and universities also host regular screenings.
H3: 11. What’s the significance of the “Virgin Sacrifice”?
At some screenings, “virgins” (first-time attendees) are brought to the front and playfully teased or initiated into the Rocky Horror culture. This is usually done in good fun and is a way to welcome new members to the community. It’s meant to be lighthearted and welcoming.
H3: 12. What is shadow casting and how does it affect the props?
Shadow casting involves actors performing the movie live in front of the screen while the film plays. This requires the shadow cast to know cues for prop use, and the prop use to coincide with the shadow cast actors’ actions. Usually, the shadow casted actors will let the audience know of any changes to prop usage (e.g., which props are not allowed, which props are encouraged at different moments).
Embracing the Madness: A Final Word
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a unique and enduring cultural phenomenon. The act of throwing props, reciting callbacks, and participating in the communal madness is what makes it so special. By understanding the traditions, respecting the rules, and embracing the absurdity, you can ensure a fun and memorable experience for yourself and everyone around you. So grab your rice, your water pistol, and your sense of humor, and prepare to Time Warp your way into a night you’ll never forget!