In what has become a Halloween tradition in Polk County, the Polk Theatre is bringing back the “The Rocky Horror Picture Show Experience” to both the screen and stage. The production combines the screening of the film along with LIVE actors in real-time recreating the scenes on stage.
The 2020 screening was canceled due to COVID-19. Photos of the 2019 screening click here
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” movie first hit U.S. theaters in 1975 and since then, has had a continual presence in movie theaters and stages across the United States.
As in previous years, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show Experience” begins with doors opening at 9 p.m. with an on-stage deejay and dancers in the theater.
At 10:30, the pre-show begins with songs, dancing, acting, and participatory partying. Then, the 100-minute movie begins at midnight, accompanied live by The Lipstick Players, who recreate the scenes of the movie.
For those who’ve never seen what the fuss is all about, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” involves the boyfriend and girlfriend “Brad and Janet,” who get a flat tire during a storm, which takes them to the eerie mansion of “Dr. Frank N. Furter,” a transvestite scientist. There, they meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler.
Through elaborate dances and an original rock score, Frank N. Furter unveils his latest in-home creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” The couple is seduced by the mad scientist and eventually released by servants who then take control.
During the movie’s long run, audiences have participated by dressing up, shouting out character lines, bringing props, and re-enacting scenes in the theater.
The night generates funds for operating and maintenance costs of the Polk Theatre as well as for scholarships for the Fredi Dance Project, a pre-professional program for dancers ages 12 and older at Lakeland’s Ultimate Dance Center.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a rated R movie. It is recommended for those 17 years old and older due to the sexual overtones of the movie.
“Rocky Horror” audience prop bags will be available for $5 or guests can bring their own nonperishable props. Over the past five years, there has been between 900 and 1,100 people have attended each show.
If you go
WHAT: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show Experience”
WHEN: Oct.29 and 30; 9 p.m. doors open with deejay and dancers performing; 10:30 p.m., preshow band and skits; midnight, a movie with live actor accompaniment
WHERE: Polk Theatre, 121 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland
COST: $18; prop bags $5
INFO: 863-682-7553; www.polktheatre.org
