In 1993, at 15, a middle school friend dragged me to “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at the Tower Theatre. The atmosphere was mind-altering, and I had to go back again and again. I remember the vibrancy and inclusivity of the crowd were a breath of fresh air for a kid trying to find themself. We didn’t have a dedicated shadowcast at the time, rather folks would go up on stage and act out scenes during the film while emcees shouted out callback lines. Our shadowcast formed from those emcees and regulars who went on stage, myself included.
The influence of RHPS here in Salt Lake City and Utah in general has changed lives. Every year, I hear stories from regulars and newcomers alike who feel like they finally have a space to belong. We have all found in RHPS like-minded weirdos with whom we can truly be ourselves. No matter where you are from, shadowcasts and audiences welcome newcomers and tourists alike with open arms and open hearts.
Tim Curry’s performance as the mad doctor from the planet Transylvania was more than just the superficial shock of seeing a man in a backwards corset. He played the campy antagonist with such sincerity and self-assuredness that one forgets that he’s not the hero. Dr. Frank-N-Furter taught us outcasts and freaks to be proud of who we are and take any situation in stride. Curry’s ability to portray an unapologetic and self-actualized nonconformist, exhorting us to not just dream it, but be it, continues to resonate within our community.
I had the true honor of meeting him briefly at his first ever convention appearance in Los Angeles and here in Salt Lake City at FanX. I have no doubt that his enduring legacy of daring expression will continue to shine for years to come. Myself and the LDT will commemorate this truly amazing artist who brought Dr. Frank-N-Furter to life on stage and screen and share with all who join us the wish to “Don’t dream it, be it!”
Jen Ogle, Salt Lake City