Looking for something fun to do around Eugene? Consider attending a shadow cast performance of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Full of energy and passion for performing, Forbidden Fruit, a UO club, lit up the EMU amphitheater with unconventional expression and pride.
Shadow cast performances of Rocky Horror are a long-held tradition within queer communities around the US. Originally a box office flop, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” evolved into a cult classic of queer media, described by a UO shadow cast member as “one of the campiest things you’ll ever see.”
The movie musical tells the story of innocent sweethearts Brad and Janet (Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon), who stumble upon the eccentric house of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), after their car breaks down in a remote area. Described as a sci-fi horror retelling of Frankenstein with a 70s, sexual liberation twist, the film quickly became an iconic part of queer culture, according to cast interviews.
Embodying themes of pride, sexual freedom and acceptance of the unconventional, people gathered to watch the movie repeatedly, eventually yelling the script back at the screen and performing along. The fun tradition of shadow casts was born.
UO club Forbidden Fruit aims to keep this tradition and community alive on campus. Holding themed performances twice per term, the club exemplifies how queer expression and whimsical traditions thrive in Eugene.
Cast members dress up in full costume and perform the movie word-for-word in front of a projection. With charismatic dance numbers, colorful lighting design, and audience participation throughout, the shows are a must-see for students looking to spice up their weekends or people interested in finding a welcoming community here on campus.
During the club’s packed performance on Thursday, Oct. 24, Shay Santa Cruz Krigbaum, a junior majoring in sociology, shined as Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Donning lingerie and a feather boa, Krigbaum showcased exactly what Rocky Horror is all about.
“Frank has always been such a queer icon for me. Playing Frank really elevates your confidence to the max. He’s just a big deal. Very cathartic and c-nty,” Krigbaum said.
Audience participation is a big part of Rocky Horror. The audience engages in callback lines, yelling certain phrases during the film and using props. For instance, when Brad and Janet get caught in the storm, audience members hold newspapers over their heads, among other fun moments.
The songs throughout the show also contribute to the unforgettable experience. With classics like “Dammit Janet” and “Time Warp/Sweet Transvestite,” the audience sings along with passion and excitement.
“I feel like there’s no wrong way to participate. There’s people from different kinds of backgrounds here. Some people have seen the movie a billion f—ucking times, and other people have no idea what they’re getting into,” Krigbaum said. “I feel like it’s a very freeing experience as an audience member, to be loud and proud regardless of your knowledge of the movie. All that matters is that we’re here for an experience.”
“I remember, when I first saw the show, it was a moment for me where I was like, okay, this is a place where you can be a freak, you can be weird, you can be vibrantly queer and that’s gonna be acceptable. After that, I really wanted to be a part of it,” cast member Mark Luckey said.
Luckey added that as an audience member you have to “be ready for anything. You’re going to hear things and experience things that you may not have been prepared for. Just come in with an open mind and be ready to embrace how weird it is. Leave your hangups at the door.”
Forbidden Fruit can be a source of community for students who love performing and queer media. Consider seeing a show, and be ready for a unique experience that will knock your socks off.