fifty years after its debut, The Rocky Horror Picture Show continues too draw devoted fans, offering a vibrant community adn a haven for self-expression. The michigan Rocky Horror Preservation Society, performing shadowcasts twice monthly, exemplifies the filmS enduring appeal, recently incorporating puppetry into thier energetic reenactments.
For a generation, rocky Horror has represented more than just a cult film; its a cornerstone of queer history and a space where embracing individuality is not only accepted but celebrated. As volunteerism and community engagement decline, groups like the Michigan society demonstrate the vital role these spaces play in fostering connection and providing refuge.The film’s continued popularity speaks to a desire for shared experiences and a rejection of societal norms, ensuring its relevance for years to come.
The film’s impact is deeply personal for members like Dupont-Funk, who joined the Michigan Rocky Horror Preservation Society at 18.”It is dated, but it’s a piece of queer history,” dupont-Funk explains. “For me, I don’t think it’s a great movie. I love it because it’s bad. It’s different. Just like me and most of my favorite people here.”
Dupont-Funk emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences, stating, “A world without volunteer work, a world without community, a world without going out is not a world I want to be in. And it’s kind of a thing that we’re losing nowadays.”
The society’s performances extend beyond simple reenactments, incorporating themed nights such as Mardi Gras, Pride, and even Hamilton. Fans actively participate, selling toast in the lobby and enthusiastically performing “The Time Warp.” For those involved, The Rocky Horror Picture Show isn’t simply a film marking a half-century milestone-it’s a timeless phenomenon.
The performances are credited to Timothy Chen Allen.
