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!