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Weekly 'Rocky' event for mature audiences only
The Advocate
Saturday nights at the Clinton Street Theater are welcomed by groups of barely dressed people awaiting the weekly showing of the 1975 cult classic, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."
Patrons are given a comical disclaimer about the movie's content and a warning that the audience will likely be more lewd than the actual movie. Cantankerous sarcasm follows all of those in attendance into the theater.
Once inside, an enthusiastic pre-show full of dancing and singing is presented by the Clinton Cabaret and the theater's MC welcomes the audience. Once everyone seemingly has taken their seats, the audience is split into the "virgins" and the "non-virgins."
The Rocky Horror virgins have not done one of three things: seen "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," seen "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the Clinton Street Theater, or seen "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the Clinton Street Theater within six months. All virgins are blatantly marked with a lipstick "V" before entering the venue as to make sure they can't escape what awaits them inside.
The virgins are faced with a humiliating array of sexually based games – some being rather vulgar -- and are picked at random to participate, excluding virgins who are under the age of 17. There were several people who refused to participate and suffered no greater consequence than some booing from the audience.
Once the movie begins and the Clinton Cabaret comes into view, the regulars in the crowd begin yelling clever banter at the screen. For people unfamiliar with the audience's reaction, it may be hard to decipher; once you are able to make it out, it may take a few moments for the words to register and you realize it's funny.
People are welcome and encouraged to bring props to the theater; however, the Clinton Street Theater does not allow confetti. If for some reason your unfortunate self forgot to bring your noise-makers and toast, there are some props offered for sale before the movie begins.
Be prepared for anything. Rice has a tricky way of following you home and showing up for days. The flashlights and scanty women's underwear just add a unique flavor to the whole experience.
It was fascinating to see how in-sync with the movie and focused on their acting the cabaret was. There were a few times when the cabaret cast flung a witty remark to audience's comments.
The $8 weekly event is held at 2522 SE Clinton St. For more information concerning events, go to their website at http://www.clintonsttheater.com.
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