The Rocky Horror Picture Show has been a cult classic since its release in 1975. This musical comedy horror film has inspired a passionate fanbase that has kept it popular for over 40 years. One of the most iconic parts of the Rocky Horror phenomenon is the tradition of attendees dressing up as characters from the film and participating in the movie experience.
Quick Answers
Yes, dressing up is very much part of the Rocky Horror Picture Show experience for many fans. While not everyone dresses up, it is common and encouraged for attendees to come dressed as characters like Dr. Frank-N-Furter, Janet, Brad, Magenta, Riff Raff, Columbia, Rocky, Eddie, Dr. Scott, and more. This is part of the interactive, party-like atmosphere that has developed around screenings.
History of Dressing Up for Rocky Horror
The practice of dressing up for Rocky Horror originated at the Waverly Theatre in New York City in 1976. Tim Curry, who played Dr. Frank-N-Furter, had suggested that fans dress up as characters, and the idea took off. Fans enjoyed immersing themselves in the film’s world and channeling the vibrant, campy energy of the characters by dressing up.
As midnight screenings expanded to more theaters and the fanbase grew, dressing up became a key part of engaging with Rocky Horror. Fans found creative ways to recreate costumes from the movie on a budget using household items, garments from thrift stores, and lots of glitter and makeup. The experience became communal, with groups of friends collaborating on looks.
Popular Character Costumes
While any character is fair game, the most popular Rocky Horror costumes are:
- Dr. Frank-N-Furter – Lingerie, pearls, top hat, cape, heavy makeup
- Janet – White bra and slip, pink fur coat, long blonde wig
- Brad – Gray suit, glasses, short dark wig
- Columbia – Gold sequined top hat, tails, glittery bustier, fishnets
- Magenta – Black maid’s uniform, white apron, feather duster
- Riff Raff – Dark brown coveralls, bald cap, Transylvanian symbol on necklace
Is Dressing Up Required?
While dressing up is popular and encouraged, it is not an actual requirement to attend a Rocky Horror screening. Plenty of newcomers and casual viewers go in regular street clothes. Many theaters even have prop bags available to rent so you can participate without a costume.
However, those who immerse themselves in the full Rocky Horror costumed experience tend to get the most out of it. The extra effort often means you’re a hardcore fan who will enjoy every callback and audience participation moment.
Etiquette for Costumes
There are some general etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:
- Aim for fun, campy costumes – leave anything too revealing at home
- Try not to obscure anyone’s view with large props or hats
- Apply makeup at home instead of the theater
- Arrive early enough to get dressed and comfortable before the show
- Check first if your theater has costume restrictions
Other Ways Fans Join In
In addition to costumes, Rocky Horror fans also like to:
- Perform the Time Warp dance in front of the screen during the song
- Spray water during the rain storm scene
- Throw rice during the wedding scene
- Respond with callouts to certain lines
- Use newspaper to cover heads during Brad’s song
- Wave glow sticks or flashlights
- Dance and sing along
So while the costumes are central to the Rocky Horror experience, they are just one aspect of the overall celebratory, interactive environment that has made the film so beloved.
Costume Contests and Pre-Show Parties
Many theaters hold contests before or after the show for the best costumes. Prizes for winners might include free passes to future shows. There are often pre-show costume parties as well for fans to mingle, show off their creativity, and get excited before heading into the theater.
Cast members from local shadow casts, who act out the show in front of the screen as it plays, will sometimes make appearances and pose for photos with fans in costume. Shadow casts are another way the Rocky Horror legacy continues to thrive across generations.
Creative Family Costumes
For groups and families that attend together, coming up with coordinated group costumes can be especially fun. Some popular ideas include:
- Parents as Brad and Janet, kids as Transylvanians
- Whole family dressed as different Transylvanians
- Siblings as Riff Raff and Magenta
- Group of friends each as a different character
Part of the appeal of Rocky Horror costumes is how flexible they are. You can recreate looks exactly as they appeared in the film, or put your own spin on them with creative additions. The key is simply letting loose and channeling the spirit of the movie.
Tips for First-Timers
If you’re new to Rocky Horror, consider these tips for your first time in costume:
- Start simple – try for recognizable looks without going overboard
- Aim for one key prop, wig, or makeup element
- Leave costumes at home if unsure and just bring props
- Arrive early to observe costumes and buy/rent props
- Connect with fans online beforehand for costume ideas
- Acclimate first before dressing up at future shows
Virgins don’t need to feel intimidated. Focus first on enjoying the show and appreciating the creativity on display. You’ll likely be inspired for next time!
Where Can You See it With Costumes?
Rocky Horror costumes are most prevalent at:
- Special anniversary or holiday screenings
- Showings with shadow casts
- Midnight screenings
- Screenings at historic theaters known for Rocky Horror
Check local theater calendars around Halloween especially. Some venues are keeping the tradition going with monthly late night showtimes.
Year-Round Dedication of Fans
The vibrant Rocky Horror fan community keeps the movement going year-round. Costumed fans can be spotted at:
- Fan conventions like Scum of the Earth
- Live shadow cast performances
- Immersive theater productions
- Fundraisers and charity events
- Halloween parties
- Cosplay conventions
There are even Rocky Horror conventions dedicated specifically to costuming. So the creativity and passion is not limited to the movie screenings alone.
Online Sharing
The internet has allowed Rocky Horror fans to share photos of costumes and content more than ever before. You can find inspiration online via:
- Fan group Facebook pages
- Instagram hashtags like #RockyHorrorCostume
- Pinterest boards for DIY costumes
- Reddit threads with costume ideas
- YouTube makeup and costume tutorials
Online communities provide encouragement, tips, and a place to showcase costume creativity year-round, even when screenings aren’t happening locally.
Conclusion
Dressing up in costumes to attend Rocky Horror Picture Show screenings is a beloved tradition that adds to the interactive, party atmosphere. While not required, those who take the time to assemble creative, campy costumes find it highly rewarding. The popularity of dressing up reflects the passion and dedication of Rocky Horror fans who keep introducing new generations to the wonders of this cult classic film.
