Have a Frank-ly Fabulous Christmas!

As Slade once sang - IT'S CHRIIIIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSTTTTTTMMMMAAAAASSSS!!!!

And so from all of us here at the Rocky Horror Blog, have a Frank-ly fabulous Christmas and a super New Year!

Since I don't have much else to say, here's a little early Christmas present for you...

I'd like to find that package under my tree!

Had to be said!



Have a rose-tinted Christmas!
Love and Rocky,
Harriet and Sam
x

How to be... Columbia

We've decided to try (emphasis on try) a monthly segment called 'How to be..." where we show you cheap and easy ways to compile Rocky Horror costumes for showings, parties, et cetera, mostly because we're bored. For me, dressing up is an integral part of the Rocky experience, and if you're a Rocky virgin and are worried what to wear, I hope this guide can help to at least give you a starting point!

I've seen some of the pre-made costumes in the flesh and I don't like them. They're expensive, poorly made and sometimes look nothing like the picture on the packet! I'm thinking especially of the Columbia pre-packaged costume Click Here, which contains what looks like a floppy gold sunhat, far from the nicer picture on the front. For the same money, you could probably make a better costume yourself by compiling some items and making others.

This month's costume is Columbia!

Columbia's costume for the Time Warp (movie costume, left) is my personal favourite, but it isn't the easiest costume in the world being so fabulously sequined.

If you want to make your costume really accurate, I'd recommend: www.rockyhorrorcostumelist.info/anlcolum.htm

Tailcoat:
Columbia's tailcoat is fully gold sequined with black sequin lapels. I would recommend buying a mirrored-sequin fabric tailcoat. The cheapest I've found is on Amazon for £11.99 Click Here. Alternatively, you could buy a plain tailcoat and cover it with gold sequined material such as this Click Here but this is likely to be more expensive and will require a lot of work and a bit of skill.

Bustier:
Columbia's bustier is made of a complex pattern of different coloured sequins. You can buy PERFECT multi-sequined custom fabric from Larry Viezel Click Here but it costs $50 a yard and you'll probably need two yards so this isn't a cheap option.
How about wearing a sequin bustier in one colour like this one? Click Here. It's nice and cheap, and if you're feeling creative you could sew some sequins in other colours on as well. Or if you're more skilled with a sewing machine you could buy some multicoloured sequin fabric like this Click Here and sew it around a plain bustier.

Shorts:
Columbia's shorts are black satin with stipes of metallic ribbon. I found these Click Here on eBay for £12.99, but you can probably find cheaper pairs, especially if you don't want satin ones. Sew strips of ribbon onto the shorts (you can buy coloured ribbon in a million places).

Top Hat:
The top hat is covered in gold sequins with a black un-sequined hatband. You can buy sequin felt top hats for under £6 on eBay Click Here or you could buy a plain top hat and cover it with sequined fabric as I mentioned for the tailcoat, but this will likely be more costly and time consuming.

Bow Tie:
The bow tie is pink sequined on the front, and is attached on an elastic strap. I found this Click Here on eBay for £2.95. Sorted.
If you don't want to wear a bow tie, Columbia wears a black dog collar with rhinestones on it after the time warp. You could wear a studded choker like this Click Here or buy a plain black choker and glue rhinestones to it.

Hair:
Columbia's hair is short and red, parted on the left. I can't vouch for the pre-packaged wig Click Here but you can get it for under £10 in most places. If you have short hair already, you could use wash in-wash out red hair colour Click Here. I've even seen people with long hair dye it red and hide most of it under the hat.

Fishnets:
Nice and easy, you can buy black fishnets for under £5 Click Here.

Socks:
Light blue ribbed socks Click Here. I didn't spend too much time looking for these, so you can probably find better ones.

Shoes:
Columbia's shoes are black tap shoes (due to the tap solo she performs during the Time Warp) with blue and silver (I think) sequins stuck on. The strap is fastened with a buckle, not a ribbon. I found some accurate-looking ones on eBay Click Here but they're expensive. You can buy tap shoes for under £20 Click Here and stick sequins or rhinestones on them with glue, but they'll be noisy. I'd recommend getting a pair of black mary jane shoes with a small heel and just stick sequins on. Will stick look great and will probably be cheaper.

Ring:
If you want to be really accurate, Columbia wears a ring on her left ring finger. It's silver with a flat blue band in the middle. A cheap mood ring would look great Click Here - I used to own a mood ring and it was almost always blue: perfect.

Hopefully this will help you to recreate a great Columbia costume. It's such a great costume because there are so many areas which you could add your own creative flair to, so don't be afraid to experiment. Now all you need is a squeaky voice and a lovable delivery boy on your arm, and you're sorted!

More costumes coming soon.

2009/2010 UK Tour - Glasgow Photos

The UK tour of Rocky Horror is almost over, and I've been fortunate enough to see it twice this year in 2 of the 3 Scottish tour dates. I was in Glasgow last night at the Saturday night matinee (was gutted to discover I couldn't get a train home until about 6 in the morning if I went to the late show). It was my first time seeing David Bedella as the scandalous Frank-N-Furter - I saw an understudy when in Edinburgh - and he was incredible. I almost melted on his entrance. Some say he's one of the only Frank's to match Tim Curry's original brilliance; while I don't know if this is true, he was certainly incredible. As my second live Rocky Horror Show, it did not dissapoint.

Unfortunately, the crowd did. I've never been particularly fond of Glasgow anyway, and this confirmed my beliefs. The lack of costumes was astounding and heartbreaking. I had the great enjoyment of being in the front row, but was taken aback when only 1 or 2 other people in the row even made an attempt at dressing up (even a feather boa is appreciated!) The man beside me didn't even do the Time Warp. It was devastating. Thankfully, there were a few good old fashioned Rocky fans like me strutting their stuff in corsets, fishnets and heels - women too! And here are just a few pictures!

Got any photos to add to our blog? Not just from this show - anything Rocky is most appreciated!

You can email us at: rockyhorrorblog@hotmail.co.uk

The Rocky Horror Glee Show - My review

I would just like to admit, before I start, that this review will be biased due to the facts that 1. I don't like Glee and 2. I am a massive Rocky Horror fan who hates to see it ruined, may have affected my judgement a teensy bit. If you're looking for an impartial, completely objective review of The Rocky Horror Glee Show, this isn't for you.

Otherwise, let's dish!

When I first heard that Glee was doing Rocky Horror, I was filled simultaneously with both dread and cautious curiosity. 'If nothing else, it'll introduce Rocky Horror to a new generation' some fans said tentatively both before, and after, the episode aired. Personally, I don't think this is very important - as I've pointed out several times, a show which can last majestically for over 30 years without showing any signs of stopping (all without the help of Glee) must constantly be revealed to new generations anyway. I myself am 17, part of Glee's target audience, and I found Rocky just fine on my own. But I digress. Although it's true that Glee might introduce new fans to Rocky, I personally don't think this should be their first taste. If it was mine, I wouldn't come back for more.

The episode, which aired just before Hallowe'en in America and can be found online for UK fans if you're interested (I was curious, and regret it now), sees the guy who I assume is the teacher deciding to put Rocky Horror on for the school's annual play because an annoying woman (another teacher, I assume) tells him she loves it and so does her boyfriend, and teacher guy wants to win her over even though I don't think he cares much for the show at all. Still awake? Okay, let's get into the nitty gritty. Half the episode is spent dwelling on the love triangle, the other half sees the moaning teens bitch repeatedly about the revealing costumes (which was stupid, really, since the cheerleaders in particular were more covered up when wearing their costumes than their regular clothes...) and about the risque content, and a further half (I know that's three halves but that's what it felt like) dealt with some stupid opinionated woman in a tracksuit also bitching and condemning Rocky Horror (!), which really left very little time for anything else, not that I would have been awake to see it.

And then, after almost an hour of tedious will-they/won't-they, the show gets cancelled because it turns out that it's not okay to be who you want to be and give over to pleasure once in a while. What a wonderful message, Glee. They try to pull themselves out of the gutter by performing the play 'for themselves', ending the episode on an appallingly bad rendition of the Time Warp, and after all that moaning about tax dollars being spent on something like that, what happens? Oh, right - all those tax dollars are in fact wasted because the elaborate set and costumes go to waste since the show is never performed before a paying audience. Logic???

Let's step aside from the ridiculously bad plotting of the episode for a minute to look at where Glee's take on Rocky Horror managed to suck just that little bit more. First of all, there was the casting of a female Frank. Fair enough - she was not the first pick and she only volunteered because she wanted to be empowering, et cetera, et cetera. But it just did not work. For a start, you cannot be a transvestite, let alone a sweet one, if you are a woman wearing women's clothes. That just makes you a woman. Duh. And then the casting of a female Frank led to innevitable lyric alterations ("I'm not much of a man by the light of day..." couldn't exactly work anymore, and so on). This is acceptable. But the further lyric tinkerings were not.

Whoever rewrote the lyrics to "Toucha-toucha" should be slapped. Hard. "I thought there's no use getting into heavy petting, it only leads to trouble and seat wetting" became, tragically, "I thought there's no use getting into heavy sweating (seriously) it only leads to trouble and bad fretting". What does that even mean, apart from being a little disgusting? "Toucha-toucha" was subject to the worst of the alterations - "then if anything grows" became "if anything shows" and so on - but it was not the only song to be dismembered. Immortal hit "Sweet Transvestite was also quite epically ruined when the word "Transexual" was replaced with "sensational". I'd just like to point out to Glee that "Transexual" was the name of the planet that Frank and crew came from, in the galaxy of Transylvania, so that little change not only killed the mood but the entire story. Round of applause.

Not even the appearances of Barry Bostwick and Meat Loaf playing bit parts could redeem this sordid thing. It had a lot of potential, and I'll admit that some of the renditions weren't bad - 'Hot Patootie' and 'Over at the Frankenstein place', for instance, were actually pretty listenable - but the makers of this programme took something wonderful and dragged it through the dirt.

And yes, Glee might introduce a new generation to Rocky Horror, but if I was watching that episode, which seemed to say it isn't acceptable in our society to be Rocky Horror fans and that we should just do it in the privacy of our own homes, or not at all, I don't think I'd be very impressed.

As the episode ended, it was with an enormous relief that I remembered I'm going to a live show in just over a week, before that abomination becomes stuck in my head.

"Don't dream it; be it"? The Rocky Horror Glee Show was more like a nightmare.

Happy Hallowe'en!

Very self-explanatory post - just wanted to wish you a VERY HAPPY HALLOWE'EN from all of us here at The Rocky Horror Blog!


Halloween Glitter Graphics - Glitterlive.com

Any Rocky Horror costumes this year?

Actor Gerard Kelly has died

I was shocked to hear today that Gerard Kelly has died at the age of 51.

Gerard Kelly was the narrator at the Edinburgh and Aberdeen shows of Rocky Horror this year. He was due to revive the role in two weeks at the Glasgow shows.

He died on October 28th after collapsing in his London home with a brain aneurysm.

Kelly appeared in such TV programmes as City Lights, Rab C Nesbitt and Extras, as well as taking part in pantomimes for over 20 years.

I think it's a bit callous to really consider it so soon, but I've heard it said that Kelly's friend and colleague Andy Gray might take his place in the Rocky Horror Show in Glasgow.

Kelly will be sorely missed.

Glee kills the Time Warp

If you haven't heard already, Glee is doing Rocky Horror. I was cautiously optimistic for a while but after seeing this... abomination, all hope is lost.

Here is Glee doing the Time Warp.

I have seen (and done) better Time Warp's whilst waiting at a bus stop. Can someone please explain why there are TWO Magenta's AND TWO Columbia's??? And why Eddie and Rocky are involved in the Time Warp before said characters are even introduced??? Did they even WATCH the film???????

Here is my summary of what this episode will almost certainly be like:

crap singing + crap dancing + crap wannabees who didn't read the script = a headache to any Rocky Horror fan.

See for yourself...

Click here to watch on YouTube

Official Rocky Horror Hallowe'en Party!

Hiya Frankie fans! ScofieldBurrows here. I thought I'd post a quick bit about the Official Rocky Horror Hallowe'en Party because I keep getting Facebook posts about it and the temptation's driving me nuts!

It's being held in the Alexander Theater in Birmingham on Saturday October 30th and I hear it's almost sold out so you better book quick if you want to go! The details are all on the flyer below, but it's also on the tour website rockyhorror.co.uk if you're interested.

I'm severely jealous because not only am I stuck at a writing course in Edinburgh on that day, but my mum also doesn't think it's a good enough excuse to warrant me going to Birmingham (mad woman!). But if you live in or near there, lucky devil, this looks set to be a FAB evening - and for just £25 to boot!

All the cast and crew are invited and I am prepared to bet that most of them will at least show face - you never know, Richard O'Brien himself might make an appearance! Super exciting, can't believe I'm missing it.

The £25 not only gets you in, but also pays for a DJ, a special RHS pass (sure to be collectable one day!) and food and drink. The menu is listed on the flyer, and it sounds pretty yummy.

I am so JEALOUS! This sounds like not only the perfect after party but the greatest Hallowe'en ever!

Will you be in attendance? If anyone is, take some snaps for us! And know that I envy you!

Upcoming events to blog...

Hello... Myself and ScofieldBurrows have had a few ideas for regular sections we want to feature on the blog, and we thought we'd run them by you first.

We're thinking of doing a weekly biography of someone Rocky - whether it be Richard O'Brien, Tim Curry, David Bedella, or one of the many, many other people who help us achieve absolute pleasure!

Since, for us and so many others, dressing up is such an integral part of Rocky Horror and we know that some people might be nervous about it - what to wear? will I look stupid? etc - we want to make things easier for anyone struggling to chose the right costume, so we're going to show you how to compile easy, fun and fabulous costumes for the cheapest possible price! This could take us some time to research so this might be every month, but with such a wealth of wonderful costumes to chose from, it should be very fun!

Linking in with that, ScofieldBurrows is thinking of showing you her cheap and easy makeup tips! So far, she's only tried Magenta's and Frank's makeup, but she's got a hunkering to try out the Phantom's so that may be her first project!

That's all we've got for now! We'll keep trying to bring you the latest show news, photos and much more as well of course!

Dig it, if you can.

The Rocky Horror Glee Show - PROMOS!!!

So.... If you haven't heard already, Glee are doing a show where the club puts on Rocky Horror as the school's annual play. It's due to air in America on October 26th and I don't know about us folks across the pond yet. Are you excited? You might well be after seeing the promos...




I'm hesitant to say much about it yet, but from what I've seen so far... It doesn't look too bad. And if it introduces a new generation of people to Rocky, that's great! My only real concern is that they'll just turn it into a bunch of angsty teens whining and huffing and... I don't know, I've never had the inclination to watch Glee before. But since I'll watch damn near anything about Rocky - and since the deal has been sweetened by the promise of Barry Bostwick and Meat Loaf appearing in the episode - I shall certainly be taking a look at this when it arrives here in Britain!

Thoughts?

A very cool website: timewarp.org.uk

I want to talk about a really cool website that is on our list of recommended Rocky sites. It's called timewarp.org.uk and it's the official UK fan club for Rocky Horror fans, and has been since 1988. It's a really great website which you can enjoy whether you're a member or not - lifetime membership costs £2 and is totally worth it, by the way.

Anyway, the website is THE place for all UK dwelling Rocky fans. It is the best place for news, upcoming tour dates, et cetera. They also have lots of fun games, and the monthly Time Warp competition! We're writing this now because ScofieldBurrows was very excited to tell me that she won competition no.160 (September's competition), and her name will now forever be on the website's Hall of Fame, which is very cool, as well as the prize, which she very kindly sent us a picture of. To enter the competition, you only have to answer 5 Rocky related questions - about upcoming tour dates, other films the actors have been in, lines from the movie - anything and everything (and if you don't know, Google it!). The winner every month wins an exclusive website winner badge, but they almost always send a little bonus prize or two as well! Some bonus prizes have included t-shirts, dvd's, etc, (and sometimes really rare stuff) and this coming month it's a copy of the film 'Clue' which stars the wonderful Tim Curry. But more often than not, they'll send some random Time Warp/ Rocky Horror goodies which is what Scofield got and which she could not have been happier about!

I think you can click on the photo to enlarge it, but as you can see she won a selection of Rocky Horror flyers and things dating back as far as 1999. The bundle included postcards from the '99 Transylvanian convention, various flyers from shows, and even some extremely cool Rocky Horror CHRISTMAS CARDS (!!!) which I am severely jealous of! To some people, this stuff may seem worthless, but to Rocky collectors like us - Scofield's started making a Rocky scrapbook, she says, with all this cool stuff, and her own photos and ticket stubs (she calls it The Denton Affair!) - it is priceless. I'm very jealous right now - I've never won!

I would highly recommend this website because it is just brilliant. And you should totally enter the competition too - it's for both members and non-members, and even if you win you can enter again!

The Rocky Horror GLEE Show?!!

Will it drive us insa-a-a-ane? One can only hope as American TV show 'Glee' announces that the fifth episode of its second season will see the Glee club pay tribute to the Rocky Horror Show by staging it as the school's annual musical. Will it chill us, thrill us and fulfill us? I have my doubts, but it's certainly worth a look.

The episode, directed by Adam Shankman, will premiere on the Fox network in America on October 26th 2010. UK viewers will have to wait till it comes out here (I'll update as soon as I know when). An extended play called Glee: The Music, The Rocky Horror Glee Show will be released on October 19th 2010 (in Britain too? I don't know). It will feature 7 sonds from the episode:
1. Science Fiction Double Feature
2. Damn it, Janet
3. Whatever happened to Saturday night?
4. Sweet Transvestite
5. Toucha toucha touch me
6. There's a light (over at the Frankenstein place)
7. Time Warp

Seems like a weird order to put the songs in, but there you go.
The director said on Twitter that, while risque, the musical is perfect for Glee because all the characters feel like misfits. Fair enough, but I really can't imagine any of their angsty, annoying characters playing Frank very well. Maybe that's just me though.

The one thing which REALLY motivates me to be excited about the episode is that Barry Bostwick (Brad) and Meat Loaf (Eddie) will be appearing in the episode! Bostwick said their roles were 'stunt casting' whatever that means, and says he won't be singing in the episode. Oh well. Susan Sarandon said she was open to appearing in the episode depending on the role, and was flattered by the tribute. Unfortunately she was never approached - another shame. Timy Curry will not be in the episode either. Well, we can't have everything.

Will you be watching?

ScofieldBurrows presents: The Rocky Horror Album Show

Blog writer/researcher and Rocky Horror fanatic ScofieldBurrows has recently completed a slightly obsessive but incredible project in her Stardoll album. She calls it The Rocky Horror Album Show - over 50 pages of incredibly detailed Rocky goodness! In it, she tells the entire story of Rocky Horror - from the opening lines of Science Fiction, Double Feature to the reprise at the end! - using her medoll to play ALL the characters! The costumes are stunning, the sets are beautifully detailed... It's dirty, flirty and ASTOUNDING!

Here are just a few examples of her work...

Isn't it phenomenal? But don't take my word for it - see the entire thing for yourself.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO SCOFIELDBURROWS ALBUM

The Rocky Horror Website List

Hello dearest Time-Warpers.

Need your fix of RHPS but don't know where to go? We've decided to compile a list of 'Rocky Sites' for your absolute viewing pleasure. We'll add to the list as we find new sites to chill, thrill and fulfill all your Rockying needs. If you can think of any other sites, please do post them below or send us an email!

Everything Rocky
rockyhorror.com
timewarp.org.uk (uk official fansite)
rockymusic.org
godamongdirectors.com/scripts/rhps.shtml (original script)
rockyhorrorblog.blogspot.com (of course)
rockyhorrorarchives.org
rockyhorror.org
cosmosfactory.org
thecelluloidjam.com


Tour Dates/News
rockyhorror.co.uk (UK)
rockyshows.net (US I think)


Costume Needs
rockyhorrorcostumelist.info (everything you need to know about the costumes)
asifbymagiccostumes.com/costume-list/ (costume makers - UK. ScofieldBurrows recommends)
edgecreations.blogspot.com (costume makers - US)
http://myworld.ebay.co.uk/bruisevi0let/ (eBay seller who makes incredible floorshow boas)
rockywigs.com




We'll add to the list when we remember/find more websites!

New UK tour dates!

The current UK tour has had some new dates added to it which is VERY exciting because it is simply BRILLIANT! ScofieldBurrows tells me she's already managed to secure front row tickets to the Saturday night matinee in Glasgow in November - but tickets are selling like hotcakes she says ("there's practically none of the good ones left!") so if you're planning a visit, you better book soon. Here is the list of places the tour is going for the rest of the year:

Woking New Victoria Theatre: 30 Aug - 4 Sep

Southend Cliffs Pavilion: 6 - 11 Sep

Brighton Theatre Royal: 13 - 18 Sep

Llandudno Venue Cymru: 20-25 Sep

Ipswich Regent Theatre: 29 Sep - 2 Oct

Liverpool Empire: 4 - 9 Oct

Grand Canal Theatre Dublin: 11 - 16 Oct

Blackpool Grand Theatre: 18 - 23 Oct

Birmingham Alexamdra Theatre: 25 - 30 Oct

Leeds Grand Theatre: 1 - 6 Nov
Glasgow Theatre Royal: 8 - 13 Nov
Manchester Palace: 15 - 20 Nov

Richmond Theatre: 22 - 27 Nov

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre: 29 Nov - 4 Dec

So dust off your heels if you can, pull on your fishnets and let's do the time warp again! All the details of how to book tickets are on the tour website (rockyhorror.co.uk) - but, for Glasgow at least, they're going mighty fast! Hope to see you there :)

Photos!

These excellent photos were taken at the Edinburgh Playhouse in June 2010.

The playhouse doesn't let you take photos but these are some cheeky snaps taken by one of our members.

Trixi the Usherette singing "Science Fiction, Double Feature" as the show begins...

The current UK tour has happily kept the tradition of Trixi being played by the woman who plays Magenta, and also Dr Scott being played by the man playing Eddie.

"Dammit, Janet - I love you!

The entire cast taking a bow at the end of the show. In this particular show, the cast were promoting breast cancer awareness by all wearing pink variations of their costumes!

This beautiful closeup is of Frank in his pink corset. Check out the fur! (This isn't actually David Bedella, the current Frank - he couldn't make this show so this is his understudy. And he was phenomenal!)

If you have any cool Rocky Horror photos you want to share (and please do!) you can email them to us at rockyhorrorblog@hotmail.co.uk

The Virgin's Guide to Rocky Horror - Part 4

And now we come to the crux of the Rocky Horror experience...

Part 4 - Costumes

In my opinion, it is dressing up to see a show which turns a great night into a night you will never forget. Embarrassed about dressing up? Don't fret. Here's everything you need to know about DRESSING UP:

1. You don't have to dress up. If it's your first time at the show and you think you'll be the only one wearing a costume, just wear something you're comfortable in. At some shows I've been too, more than half the audience will be dressed up, and at others it will only be a spattering of folks. For your first time, if you're uncomfortable, you don't have to dress up - but after seeing the other people in costume, you may feel like you want to next time!

ScofieldBurrows says: at the last show I attended (a matinee), most people weren't in costume but the ones who were got so much attention. My party was talked to by everyone, congratulated on our daring and design, and had more photos taken of us than we could count. And that was before the show started! When I sat down in the theatre, the couple next to me were wearing jeans and t-shirts. They looked me up and done and said "we feel overdressed!" I think a lot of people want to dress up but are too afraid. You might find after your first Rocky experience that you fall in love with a particular costume like I did, or that you felt out of place in normal clothes, and so you might be more daring next time!

2. Not every costume has to be revealing. Don't want to strut your stuff in fishnets and heels? You don't have to! There are plenty costumes which aren't too daring but will still make you stand out from the crowd. Love Frank but don't want to wear a basque? No problem! How about wearing a green labcoat, rubber gloves and peals like he does in the creation scene? Cool costume! Are you a guy who's embarrassed to wear heels? Why not be the narrator, complete with cravat and book? I've seen some great narrators in my time, particularly older gents whose best Rocky-ing days are behind them. My advice: if you want to dress up but don't want anything too revealing and don't know what to wear, watch the movie and you'll probably even see something you could put together from pieces in your wardrobe! Sorted!

3. A costume doesn't have to be perfect. Rocky Horror can be a very abstract concept. Some people choose to get a costume as accurate as possible whilst others add a twist of their own personality to it. ScofieldBurrows's preferred costume is movie-accurate whilst mine is more abstract and I often change or alter pieces as I see other costumes I like. At the last show I saw, some of the people in costume looked like they'd stepped right off the stage whilst other people had just added, for example, a gold sequined jacket to their normal outfit or perhaps a feather boa. And both ways are fine! The important thing about Rocky Horror is just to have fun and let your hair down, and I salute anyone who wears even the smallest hint of costume! One thing you should never do is mock other people's costumes. We're all there to have fun and everyone does it in their own unique way - that's one of the things which makes Rocky Horror so special!

That's the basics of dressing up. Now here are some of my own personnal opinions on what makes a good costume:

- Personally, I don't like the pre-made costumes that you can buy. They're cheaply made, expensive, and often don't look anything like they do on the packet. A friend of mine bought a packaged Columbia costume for her first time at a show. Columbia famously wears a gold sequin hat and tailcoat. The tailcoat was the only part of that costume she eventually ended up wearing. On the packet, the hat looked like a plastic glitter hat, not too bad, but the hat you got was a flimsy fabric thing which looked like a ridiculous floppy gold sunhat! My friend then bought black shorts and sewed coloured ribbons on them, bought a beautiful cheap corset on eBay, made a bow and decorated a top hat herself, and she looked great. That said, I've heard the Riff-Raff wig you can buy is actually pretty good because it's not an easy hairstyle to do unless you have hair like that naturally!
- eBay is a great place to buy Rocky Horror costume pieces. I've seen beautiful homemade Columbia hats, Eddie leather vests, etc going for reasonable prices on eBay. I've even seen a gorgeous custom made costume up for bid once or twice. You can sometimes see whole costumes that people have made, or just parts. It's a great place to get unique pieces for good prices!
- ScofieldBurrows is a diehard Rocky fan who had her costume custom-made. She says: a custom-made costume is expensive but well worth it, in my opinion. I fell in love with possibly the most difficult costume in the show and the costume designers I contacted made a fabulous job of it. The quality is superb and I have no doubt that it will last me for many, many years. I believe that making your own costume is a lot of fun because I've helped to prepare costumes for other people. If you want to get a really good costume, I'd advice speaking to other costume-clad people at the show. We all love talking about our costumes and it can be a great source of advice, whether that's where to get a custom made costume or how to sew on sequins which won't fall off as easily!
- I like to be different. In my experience, the most commonly worn costume is Magenta's maid costume because it's easy to do. I personally like to stand out, so I stay away from this costume. If you want to stand out, why not try a more unusual costume, like Magenta's dinner dress? I once saw a girl who made an excellent replica of the outfit Patricia Quinn wears at the start of the film, where Magenta, Columbia, Riff and Frank can all be sneakily seen at the wedding of Betty and Ralph.
- More on the maid's outfit. It's a great outfit but one thing I don't like to see is people who wear a slutty maid's outfit which looks nothing like the one on the stage or in the film. The thing about Magenta's costume is that it is sexy in its own strange way without being slutty. So instead of heading down to Anne Summers to buy a naughty role playing dress, why not try a traditional frilly white apron and pancake hat over a black dress? It's a simple costume and I personally think it looks a lot better than a cheeky French maid costume!


In the end, if you're attending your first show, just wear something you're happy in and have fun! There will always be someone who looks more out of place than you, and you may get so swept up in the great atmosphere that you want to dress up next time! It happens to us all. Remember to have fun!

The Virgin's Guide to Rocky Horror - Part 3

Part 3 - Audience Participation Lines

Audience Participation apparently dates back to a show during the 1970's in New York, and has been custom ever since.  In addition to dressing up and singing along, members of the audience talk back to things the actors say. At first glance, audience members shouting at the cast may seem confusing and rude. Here is everything you need to know about shout back lines!

No shout-back lines are carved in stone. New ones are invented from show to show and old ones which were maybe funny thirty years ago but not now are discarded. Here are some things I noticed people yelling at the last stage show I attended:

- Classically, when the Narrator says Brad Majors's name, people in the audience yell "Arsehole!" This is always funny, but not if you yell it when the name is mentioned by other characters or during songs. Then it's just annoying.

- Similarly, when the Narrator said Janet Weiss's name, people used to yell "Slut". But at the last show I attended, and this was the first time I've heard it used, people yelled "WEISS!" after Janet's name, because Brad later pronounces it wrong like "vice". This is certainly funny to yell after Brad gets it wrong, but I'm not sure I like it when the Narrator says it right, a classic example of how new lines are invented but are not always funnny.

- Rocky used to be called a "Pokemon" but that isn't very fresh anymore and didn't get many laughs at the last show at all. Let it die!

- After the narrator says "I would like, if i may" during his first entrance, most people yell "You may!", to which he usually replies "Thank you." It's not particularly funny unless you're there, in which instance the atmosphere of getting involved is just great!

- The response which got the most laughs at the last show I saw was after the narrator said "Brad and Janet had just tasted..." Before he could say "Forbidden fruit", a crude member of the audience yelled "Frank's cock!" which got many laughs. Bless him, Gerard Kelly who was playing the narrator handled it very well and yelled back "Well I was going to say 'forbidden fruit' but if you want Frank's cock!", to which a girl yelled "Yes please!" getting further laughs.


The crucial thing about audience particpation is that it should compliment the show, not disrupt it. Some people choose to be very, very rude and this isn't always funny. Don't yell stuff out just for the sake of hearing your own voice. Don't try to be the loudest or the most frequent yeller - you'll just interupt the show and piss everyone off. Great shout-back lines are hillarious and can sometimes even cause the actors to giggle. Bad shout-back lines are just annoying and disruptive. Don't shout things during the songs - people are singing along, so it isn't funny! And don't shout anything during the takeover scene where Riff Raff kills first Columbia and then Frank and Rocky. It's a touching and dramatic scene, and I've seen it ruined by idiots who shout rubbish.

Shout back lines are only funny if they're well-timed, appropriate, and (crucially) funny in the first place.

Look out for The Virgin's Guide Part 4 - Costumes!

The Virgin's Guide to Rocky Horror - Part 2

Part 2 - Dancing

Another huge part of the Rocky Horror experience is dancing. Embarrassed about dancing in front of strangers? Don't know when or how to dance? Never fear! We're here to help!

There are certain parts of the show where most people dance (ie. The Time Warp) and other parts where some like to dance and others don't. During the "Time Warp", most of the audience at a stage show will be on their feet and dancing, so you shouldn't feel embarrassed about it at all. The dance is very simple because the instructions of how to do it are all in the lyrics. If you really do feel uncomfortable dancing in front of everyone, no one is forcing you to, but you might well being the only person left seated and so this might make you even more uncomfortable. In the end, just have fun, whether that's from watching everyone else dance or from having a boogie yourself.

How to do the Time Warp

Like I said, the basic dance steps are in the lyrics so it's a very simple dance. A good way to master the dance is to do it in time with the actors when watching the movie. As well as the basic steps, the dance is also embellished with arm gestures, etc, but if it's your first time at the show there will always be more experienced people to copy! But if you're still nervous, here is my simple guide!

"It's just a jump to the left!" - Take a jump to the left.
"Then a step to the right!" - Take a step to the right.
"Put your hands on your hips" - Place your hands on your hips.
"Bring your knees in tight" - Bring your knees together tightly.
"But it's the pelvic thrust" - Thrust your pelvis forwards and backwards.
"That really drives you insane" - With your hands on your hips, move your pelvis in a circular motion.
"Let's do the Time Warp again!" - The action to go with this varies from show to show. In the film, the Transylvanians do a range of things, from waving their arms to jumping from side to side. In the current UK tour, the action is to put your left arm above your head, then your right arm, place your left hand on your right hip, your right hand on your left hip, then wiggle your upper body up and down. But because the move here changes with most productions, you can either copy what the actors on the stage are doing, or simply do your own thing!

Dancing at other time during the show is not as compulsary as during the Time Warp. My advice is just to dance when comfortable. During a stage show, apart from a little boogie in my seat, I only stand up to dance during the Time Warp because I wouldn't want to obstruct anyone elses view and therefore dampen their own experience of the show. Be considerate and don't do anything you're not comfortable with. Also, things can get pretty cramped at a stage show, so don't get too carried away when Time-Warping! ScofieldBurrows says: If, like me, you happen to be sitting at the end of the row, it's a good idea to move out into the aisle to dance. This will give both you and the people around you more space - plus it can be a good way to get noticed!

Look out for The Virgin's Guide Part 3 - Audience Participation Lines!

The Virgin's Guide to Rocky Horror - Part 1

Are you new to the phenomenon that is Rocky Horror? Worried you'll stand out and immediately be classed as a "Rocky Virgin"? Do not fear! Here we shall tell you everything you need to know for your first experience with Rocky Horror!

Part 1 - Props

One of the best ways to achieve "absolute pleasure" when watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show is to use props. This is a famous tradition of the show but, before you jump right in there, there are a few things you should know.

The use of props is great fun but only in certain instances. For example, it's best to keep props out of theatres, particularly the props which are thrown into the air. At one point, confetti is traditionally thrown, however this will get you into a lot of trouble with the people at the theatre who have to clean it up, and if you get any on the stage it could potentially be hazardous to the actors. Also, every threatre production will make the show their own and thus tinker with the format a little, so some props might necessarily fit in. But if you're watching the film at home with friends, or at a themed party, etc, props can be a great enhancement to the atmosphere. If you're unsure, it's best to check with the people involved as to whether props are desirable. Some performances even sell prop kits, so you know that props are appreciated, plus you don't have to find space for a loo roll in your garter belt!

Now that you know how to use props as enhancements rather than annoyances, here is a list of the props which are traditionally used by members of the audience at certain parts of the show.


1. Rice. After the first song, Science Fiction Double Feature, the film opens on Brad and Janet attending the wedding of their friends Ralph Hapschatt and Betty Monroe. As the newlyweds leave the church, the wedding guests throw rice. You should do the same.

2. Newspaper. During the song "Over at the Frankenstein Place", Brad and Janet are caught in the rain and Janet puts a newspaper over her head. You should also put a newspaper over your head.

3. Water Pistols. At the same point in the film, you should use a water pistol to simulate the rain storm which Brad and Janet are caught in. This is why you need the newspaper!

4. Torch. Again during the song "Over at the Frankenstein Place", Brad and Janet sing 'There's a light!' At this point, you should use a torch, lighter, etc to light up the room!

5. Rubber Gloves. When Frank makes his creation speech at the birth of Rocky Horror, he snaps his rubber gloves at three points, and later has them pulled off by Magenta after he butchers Eddie. If you snap your rubber gloves in sync with him, it will create a brilliant sound effect!

6. Noisemakers. After Frank makes his creation speech, the watching Transylvanians show their appreciation by applauding and making noise with noisemakers. You should do the same.

7. Toilet Paper. When Dr. Scott enters the lab, Brad cries "Great Scott!" Here, you should throw rolls of toilet paper into the air!

8. Confetti. At the end of the Charles Atlas Song ("I can make you a man") reprise, the wedding march plays whilst Frank and Rocky head towards the bedroom. The Transylvanians throw confetti over them. You should throw confetti into the air.

9. Toast. During dinner, Frank proposes a toast. The word "toast" is your cue to throw a slice of toast into the air! Remember: the toast may land on you, so don't butter it! Toast can also make a tasty snack if you get peckish on your way to the show!

10. Party Hat. Also during dinner, Frank puts on a party hat to sing "Happy Birthday" to Rocky. You should also put on a party hat!

11. Bell. During the song "Planet, Schmanet" after dinner, Frank sings the line 'Did you hear a bell ring?' You should ring a bell!

12. Playing cards. After Riff Raff and Magenta interrupt the floorshow, Frank sings the song "I'm Going Home". When he sings the line 'Cards for sorrow, cards for pain" you should shower the room with cards!


That's all you need to know about props! Just remember the golden rule: props are only fun if they're fun for everyone. Be aware of the people who have to clean up your confetti! If you're watching it at home, it may take a few watches to master your cues for props. But when used responsibly, props are a great addition to an already great experience!

Stay tuned for The Virgin's Guide Part 2 - Dancing!

Welcome!

Hey there! This is my first post in my new blog, and I just wanted to thank you for dropping by and introduce myself. My name is Harriet and I am a huge fan of THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

If you're a fan too, this is most definitely the blog for you! So click that little follow button and get ready to shiver with antici.... PATION!

I'm also on Stardoll as RockyHorrorShow, and my dear friend Sam (ScofieldBurrows) who has Rocky Horror on the brain is going to contribute her unique insights (and photos!!!) to this blog!

One of the greatest things about Rocky Horror is the audience participation - and that's what we want from you! If you have any Rocky pictures you'd like put on the blog (don't send anything you're uncomfortable with) then please do send them to our email address:

rockyhorrorblog@hotmail.co.uk

So yeah, please get in touch with any cool photos, news, comments, etc. And please comment on posts too!

- Harriet