Hosting a truly memorable Rocky Horror Picture Show viewing involves far more than just pressing play. It’s about creating an immersive, interactive experience that honors the film’s cult status while embracing the unbridled enthusiasm of its fans, necessitating careful planning, attention to detail, and a healthy dose of theatrical flair.
Setting the Stage: More Than Just a Movie Night
Transforming your venue into a Transylvanian paradise is the first crucial step. Consider the atmosphere you want to create: are you aiming for a faithful recreation of the film’s aesthetic, or a more modernized, personalized take? This decision will guide your decorating and planning choices.
Location, Location, Location
The choice of venue significantly impacts the overall experience. A large basement, a community hall, or even an outdoor screen (weather permitting!) can work wonders. Consider factors like audience capacity, accessibility, and the ability to control lighting and sound. If using an outdoor venue, remember to check local ordinances regarding noise levels and permitted hours.
Decoration: Embrace the Camp
Rocky Horror is known for its over-the-top aesthetic. Embrace the camp! Think gothic extravagance: cobwebs, candelabras (battery-operated are safer!), and portraits of mysterious figures. Consider creating a themed photo booth with props like feather boas, top hats, and lab coats. Don’t forget the classic elements:
- Magenta’s feather duster
- Riff Raff’s stooped posture
- Frank-N-Furter’s platform shoes
Audience Preparation: Dress the Part
Encourage your guests to come in costume. A pre-show costume contest is a fantastic way to get everyone involved and energized. Offer prizes for the most creative, most accurate, and most outrageous costumes. Provide a costume inspiration board online or at the entrance for those who need a little help.
The Interactive Spectacle: Participation is Key
Rocky Horror is not a passive viewing experience; it’s a participatory performance. The key is to encourage audience interaction while maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
Prop Bags: Essential Ammunition
Prop bags are the lifeblood of a Rocky Horror showing. Carefully curate a bag with the following items:
- Newspaper: To cover your head during the “There’s a Light” scene.
- Water pistol: To simulate rain. Important: Remind guests to be mindful of electronics and other attendees.
- Flashlight: For the “There’s a Light” scene, as an alternative to newspapers.
- Rubber gloves: To snap along with Frank-N-Furter during his creation scene.
- Noisemakers: For the wedding scene.
- Confetti/Rice: To throw during the wedding. Note: check with your venue regarding cleanup.
- Toilet paper: To throw when Dr. Scott is mentioned.
- Toast: To throw during the dinner scene. Provide pre-cut pieces for safety.
- Party hat: For the dinner scene.
- Bell: To ring during the song “Planet Schmanet Janet.”
- Cards (Playing Cards): For the “Cards for Sorrow” reference.
Crucially, explain the proper use of each prop before the film begins. This ensures everyone is on the same page and avoids unintended mishaps.
Shadow Cast: Elevate the Experience
Consider hiring or forming a shadow cast to act out the film alongside the screen. This adds a whole new level of entertainment and immersiveness. If you have a cast, rehearsals are essential! Make sure they are familiar with the film, the props, and the audience participation cues.
Callbacks: The Language of Rocky Horror
Familiarize yourself with the common Rocky Horror callbacks. Understanding these witty responses will allow you to participate and guide the audience. However, it’s important to remember that some callbacks can be offensive or outdated. Promote respectful and inclusive call-backs by providing a list of appropriate (and hilarious) responses.
Food, Drinks, and Entertainment: Fueling the Frenzy
No Rocky Horror showing is complete without refreshments and entertainment.
Themed Treats: A Culinary Adventure
Offer themed food and drinks to enhance the experience. “Frank-N-Furter’s Footlongs” (hot dogs), “Janet’s Junk Food,” and “Rocky Road” ice cream are all crowd-pleasers. For drinks, consider a “Transylvanian Twist” cocktail or “Sweet Transvestite Tea.” Provide vegetarian and vegan options to cater to all guests.
Pre-Show Entertainment: Warm Up the Crowd
Keep the energy high before the film starts with pre-show entertainment. A DJ playing 70s glam rock, a Rocky Horror trivia contest, or a performance by the shadow cast can all set the mood.
After-Party: Keep the Party Going
Extend the fun with an after-party. Play Rocky Horror-themed music, continue the costume contest, or simply provide a space for guests to mingle and discuss their favorite moments from the film.
FAQs: Your Rocky Horror Hosting Survival Guide
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the complexities of hosting a successful Rocky Horror Picture Show event:
Q1: What’s the most important thing to consider when planning a Rocky Horror Picture Show viewing?
A: Audience engagement. Rocky Horror thrives on interaction. Focus on creating an environment where people feel comfortable participating, dressing up, and embracing the film’s eccentricities.
Q2: How do I handle audience participation in a respectful way?
A: Establish clear guidelines beforehand. Communicate what kind of callbacks and prop usage are acceptable and what is not. Actively discourage heckling or anything that could be considered disrespectful or offensive.
Q3: Where can I find a good quality print of the film?
A: Legally acquire a Blu-ray or DVD of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Streaming services may offer the film, but the quality might not be as consistent. Owning a physical copy allows you better control over the viewing experience.
Q4: What’s the best way to deal with potential mess from the props?
A: Designate a cleanup crew or assign specific cleanup duties to volunteers. Provide trash cans and recycling bins throughout the venue. Choose props that are relatively easy to clean up, and communicate clear guidelines about their usage. If using confetti or rice, check venue policies first.
Q5: How do I cater to different age groups or sensitivities?
A: Rocky Horror contains mature themes and suggestive content. Clearly advertise the film’s rating and provide a content warning before the show. You can also offer a “PG-13” version of the prop bag with less potentially offensive items.
Q6: Is it better to have a shadow cast or just encourage audience participation?
A: Both are fantastic options! A shadow cast elevates the experience, but audience participation is essential regardless. If you don’t have a cast, focus on creating a welcoming environment for audience members to shine.
Q7: What’s the ideal length of the pre-show entertainment?
A: Aim for around 30-45 minutes. Enough time to build anticipation without losing the audience’s attention.
Q8: How much should I charge for tickets?
A: Consider your expenses (venue rental, prop bags, decorations, refreshments) when determining the ticket price. A reasonable price allows you to cover costs while making the event accessible to a wide audience. Offer discounts for students or groups.
Q9: What’s the one prop I absolutely must include in the prop bag?
A: Newspaper. The “There’s a Light” scene is iconic and central to the interactive experience.
Q10: How do I handle someone who is being disruptive or disrespectful?
A: Have a designated person (or team) responsible for addressing disruptive behavior. Approach the individual calmly and explain the rules. If the behavior persists, politely ask them to leave. Safety and comfort for all attendees should be the priority.
Q11: Should I provide a list of callbacks, or let people come up with their own?
A: Providing a list ensures everyone understands the basics and helps guide the audience. Encourage creativity, but discourage offensive or hurtful responses. Think of it as a starting point, not a rigid script.
Q12: What makes a Rocky Horror showing truly unforgettable?
A: The spirit of community. It’s about creating a shared experience where people can let loose, be themselves, and celebrate the weird and wonderful world of Rocky Horror. Embrace the chaos, encourage participation, and let the magic happen!