On Friday night at 8 pm, I lost my Rocky Horror virginity. And let me tell you, I don’t have a single regret.
I’ve known Rocky Horror die-hards all of my life, including my dad who worked the reels for his college movie theater every single night and can recite the show word-for-word forty years later. My mom, however, never had interest in the film, and as a result there was speculation over whether my taste would align with his or hers. Let’s just say my dad reigned victorious.
I’ll start by recounting the beginning of the night.
I asked a ton of friends to see the film, knowing that it wouldn’t be everyone’s cup of tea. I eventually found a new friend who was available and willing to see it. Friday night rolled around and I showed up to The Reel only to find out not only that the show was sold out, but that my so-called “friend” had ditched me. I was humiliated, and I went to the bathroom to compose myself before I trudged back to my dorm. When I came out of the bathroom, I saw another stood-up-girl hand in her ticket to the box office.
As she walked out, I thought over my options. Either see the movie alone (an uncomfortable experience), or go home to my dorm alone (talk about a depressing night). I figured I might as well take the opportunity to do one of the things I set out to.
I ran to the box office and took the ticket.
The moment I entered the theater, I found some friends from one of my lectures who I sat with. They were new to the show too, which instantly put me at ease in terms of being ignorant of what was going to happen.
I knew audience participation was an important element of the Rocky Horror experience, but I didn’t expect such an awesome performance from the live cast.
Brad and Janet had spectacular voices, and the presence of every live cast-member was so strong that your eye was drawn just as much to them as it was to the movie screen. One thing was certain, there was never a dull moment in that movie theater. The live cast’s energy and the rowdy audience fed off one another to create the ultimate R-rated experience.
For the Rocky Horror “virgins” who wish to fit in with the die-hard crowd, here is a list of a few essential props to bring that will make you look like you know what the hell is going on- because I sure didn’t!
- Rice (for the opening wedding scene).
- Water gun (for those sitting in the back of the theater for the rain scene) or newspaper (for those sitting in the front).
- Flashlight (turn it on for the song, “There’s a Light”).
- Scotts toilet paper (to throw when Dr. Scott enters the lab).
- A piece of toast (for the dinner scene when Frank proposes “a toast”).
Basically, if you have no idea what I’m talking about, as long as you bring these items and follow the lead of the regulars, no one will tell the difference. Bonus points if you call Janet a slut and Brad an asshole!
The show was outstanding, and I intend on seeing it and participating in it every chance I have from here on out (with true friends).