Las Positas College is performing ‘The Rocky Horror Show,’ a culturally significant sci-fi musical, beginning on Thursday, October 23, and closing on Saturday, November 1st. ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ is a cult-classic play that debuted in 1973 and was then turned into a film in 1975. This campy rock ‘n ‘ roll musical initially got negative reception from crowds, but began gaining traction in 1976 when audiences started participating in the dialogue of the movie, yelling callbacks at the screen, and throwing rice and toilet paper in the air. Since the late 1970s, audiences have gathered for midnight showings of the film, often with a ‘shadow cast’ performing the show in front of the screen.
Director Dyan McBride described the Las Positas Theater as an especially unique theater company in the sense that their performers are extremely talented; however, the rigor of the rehearsal schedule is much less intense than that of other companies in the area.
“We call it work-life balance. We rehearse two to three days a week, and actors have the rest of the week to work on homework or have jobs. It’s a balance,” explained McBride.
McBride explained her elation to be the director of The Rocky Horror Show at Las Positas College, saying that it was one of her favorite shows, and that she is always thrilled to work with such talented performers.
“When I heard Rocky Horror was in the running for ideas of shows we might do, I immediately reached out and said, ‘That’s right up my alley.’ I am a huge fan of the show and definitely wanted to see it come to life in a unique way,” McBride said.
The Rocky Horror Show has historically been a source of controversy and concern for some. Its raunchy and unusual plot has sparked conversations about whether or not it is appropriate for viewing. There are several instances of sexual themes and partial nudity shown in the show.
“While still adhering to the raunchy themes of the show, we are trying to be as tasteful as we can with the nudity. We are really attempting to depict those parts in a way that still displays the talent of the performers,” McBride commented.
The performers in this show are leaning into the outrageous and controversial parts of the show, while still keeping in mind that it is a school-sponsored production. This show is not intended for children. McBride emphasized that it has adult themes and is most likely suitable for high-school-age and older.
Audience participation is a large part of what makes Rocky Horror such an exciting experience for so many. During productions of the show, usually with a ‘shadow cast’ performing in front of a screen showing the movie, the audience yells silly comments in response to characters’ dialogue or actions on-screen. It is also common for participants to bring props such as rice, toilet paper, toast, and other items to throw at the screen and cast, corresponding to certain parts of the show. Although exciting, this tradition can be somewhat destructive to theaters and disrespectful to custodial staff.
“We don’t want to limit audience participation. We are saying no rice or toilet paper for the show. We definitely want folks to be participating, though. It will most likely depend on the crowd for each specific night. Maybe one night we will have lots of people participating, and one night the audience will be quieter. We don’t want to put a limit on it,” McBride said.
The Rocky Horror Shows immense continued popularity has had a profound effect on culture since its debut in the 1970s. Las Positas College’s Theater department showed its hidden gothic side with its performance. Las Positas invites you to ‘give yourself over to absolute pleasure’ with them for one last weekend, ending on Saturday, November 1.
