Patricia Quinn, famous for her role as Magenta in the original stage and film versions of “The Rocky Horror Show,” was taken aback by the fervent fanbase she encountered during the 50th-anniversary tour across the U.S. and Canada. Despite years of meeting fans at various events, Quinn expressed surprise at the depth of the cult classic’s following that she witnessed on the tour.
The tour, known as The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary Spectacular, recently made a stop in Vancouver and is scheduled to visit Winnipeg, Toronto, and Kitchener, Ont., with Quinn joining later this month. Quinn described the fan response at each stop as overwhelming, with audiences not just applauding but rising to their feet and cheering enthusiastically when she appeared on stage.
The enduring appeal of the eccentric musical horror comedy was articulated by Quinn’s co-star Tim Curry, who portrayed Dr. Frank-N-Furter, during a recent film screening in L.A. Curry highlighted how the film grants individuals the freedom to embrace their wild side and enjoy being uninhibited.
Cameron Crookston, a cultural studies lecturer at the University of British Columbia, commended the lasting impact of “Rocky Horror,” noting its continuous presence over five decades worldwide. Crookston emphasized how the film has become a significant cultural touchstone, especially within the 2SLGBTQ+ community, due to its campy and sexually liberated aesthetic.
Despite its global popularity, Crookston acknowledged that the film, like many classics, has its flaws, particularly in its outdated language and representations of gender identity. He likened “Rocky Horror” to a historical text in the realm of queerness, acknowledging its significance while recognizing the need for critical engagement.
The phenomenon of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” as a cult classic has transcended traditional boundaries, with dedicated fans engaging in lively traditions like dressing up in costumes, shouting jokes, and using props during screenings. Drag queen Shelita Cox, who has performed in several live adaptations of the film, praised its message of radical acceptance and the unique theatrical experience it offers to audiences.
Cox highlighted the film’s ability to resonate with viewers on a personal level, noting its celebration of self-expression and individuality. She emphasized the film’s enduring appeal and the joy it brings to audiences, whether watched in a theater setting or at home. Cox expressed gratitude for the inclusive and vibrant atmosphere that surrounds “Rocky Horror” screenings, describing it as a one-of-a-kind experience fueled by audience participation and shared enthusiasm.