Last Halloween, I reignited my teenage love of The Rocky Horror Picture Show when a friend suggested we check out a live performance of the 1975 cult classic. I hadn't been to one of the infamously interactive screenings in years, but the moment I saw those familiar red lips appear on the screen, it all came flooding back, and I suddenly longed for the fishnets and pearl necklace I had packed away long ago. This year, I'm more determined than ever to see as much of Tim Curry in a corset as I possibly can, so these are my best bets for a very Rocky Halloween.
- Before it was a "picture show," Rocky Horror started as a stage musical, so those wishing to celebrate its original form can check out Underscore Theater Company's cabaret performances at Uncommon Ground in Lakeview on Wednesday evenings, where they are performing a scaled-down version of the production they put on last year at the Chopin Theater (which was steampunk-themed).
- The only way to see the movie and an official live "shadow" performance inside the city is at The Music Box, where a troupe called Midnight Madness are putting on a handful of performances leading up to Halloween. They even offer a handy grab bag of throw-able props for a few bucks extra, which comes with a guide for Rocky Horror virgins. As fun as the show they put on is, I couldn't help cringing when they played "YMCA" at the pre-show dance party. None of the original Rocky Horror fans would ever dream of grooving to disco music.
- The Music Box is the only place you'll find in Chicago screening the movie (the theater secured the exclusive rights a few years ago to show the film), but for those looking to get their "Time Warp" on in the suburbs, The Hollywood Blvd in Woodridge hosts Completely Crazy's production every Saturday night, which has been running since 1990.
- After you've maxed yourself out on the live shows, you can head into Kit Kat Lounge for its Rocky Horror–themed brunch on Sunday the 26th, which will include the incomparable Madam X singing all the movie's songs live as well as a costume contest and themed cocktails with glow sticks and dry ice. Just please, don't go bringing squirt guns or toilet paper to this one.