Interactive movie experiences offer a unique way to engage with films, and few are as iconic or prop-filled as The Rocky Horror Picture Show. For decades, audiences have actively participated in screenings, transforming theaters into vibrant, chaotic celebrations. One of the most visually striking and joyous moments of this participation involves a burst of colorful paper – confetti. But Why Do People Throw Confetti In Theaters during The Rocky Horror Picture Show? It’s all part of a long-standing tradition that enhances the movie-going experience and brings the film to life. This guide will illuminate the reasons behind the confetti and other essential props that make a Rocky Horror screening unforgettable.
Essential Rocky Horror Picture Show Props Explained
Participation in The Rocky Horror Picture Show involves bringing specific props to use at designated moments during the film. These actions mirror or playfully contradict the on-screen events, creating a dynamic and communal viewing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the essential props and when to use them, including why confetti is such a celebrated part of the show.
Rice: Celebrating the Wedding
As the film opens with the wedding of Ralph Hapschatt and Betty Munroe, mirroring the on-screen wedding guests’ actions by throwing rice is a perfect way to start the participatory experience. This tradition, echoing real-world wedding celebrations, immediately immerses the audience in the film’s world right from the beginning.
Newspapers: Sheltering from the Storm
When Brad and Janet find themselves caught in a storm, Janet famously uses a newspaper, “The Plain Dealer,” to shield herself from the rain. Audiences follow suit, raising newspapers above their heads as the cinematic storm rages, adding a layer of playful interaction with the movie’s narrative.
Water Pistols: Simulating the Rain
To further amplify the storm scene, water pistols come into play. Audience members use them to spray water, simulating the rain that Brad and Janet are enduring. This prop directly answers the call of the movie’s action, making the theater itself feel like part of the stormy landscape.
Candles or Flashlights: Illuminating “Over at the Frankenstein Place”
During the song “Over at the Frankenstein Place,” specifically the verse “There’s a light,” the theater transforms into a sea of lights. Candles, flashlights, and lighters are raised and lit, creating a magical and communal atmosphere. (Always remember to check theater policies regarding open flames for safety).
Rubber Gloves: Snapping Along with Frank
Frank N Furter’s dramatic creation speech is punctuated by the snapping of his rubber gloves. Audience participation echoes this action, snapping their own rubber gloves in sync, amplifying the sound and the theatricality of the scene.
Noisemakers: Applauding Rocky’s Creation
As Frank’s creation speech concludes, the Transylvanians respond with applause and noisemakers. The audience joins in, using noisemakers to celebrate Rocky’s “birth,” further blurring the lines between audience and performance.
Confetti: Celebrating Rocky and Frank’s Bedroom Escapade
And here we arrive at the heart of the matter: confetti. At the end of the “Charles Atlas Song” reprise, as Rocky and Frank head towards the bedroom, the Transylvanians shower them with confetti. This is the cue for the audience to unleash their own colorful storm. Why confetti? It’s a burst of celebration, a visual representation of the outlandish joy and liberation that Rocky Horror embodies. It’s a moment of pure, unadulterated fun and a key reason why people actively participate in this unique cinematic ritual.
Toilet Paper: “Great Scott!”
When Dr. Scott makes his entrance into the lab, Brad’s exclamation, “Great Scott!” is the signal for another audience prop: toilet paper. Rolls of toilet paper are thrown into the air, creating a chaotic, humorous moment, and a play on Dr. Scott’s name and the brand “Scotts” toilet paper.
Toast: A Dinner Party Toast, Literally
During the dinner scene, Frank proposes a toast. In response, audience members throw slices of toast into the air. This literal interpretation of a “toast” is a humorous and slightly messy tradition (unbuttered is recommended!).
Party Hats: Joining the Dinner Party
As Frank dons a party hat at the dinner table, audience members mirror his action, putting on their own party hats. This simple prop unites the audience with the on-screen characters in a shared moment of dinner party absurdity.
Bell: Answering the Musical Cue
During the song “Planet Schmanet Janet,” when Frank sings the line “Did you hear a bell ring?”, the audience responds by ringing handbells. This musical cue-and-response prop adds an auditory layer to the participatory experience.
Cards: Showering Sorrow and Pain
During Frank’s poignant song “I’m Going Home,” specifically when he sings “Cards for sorrow, cards for pain,” the theater is showered with playing cards. This prop adds a dramatic and visual element to a more emotionally resonant moment in the film.
Hot Dogs and Prunes: Props to Avoid
While some overzealous fans might consider throwing hot dogs and prunes when mentioned in the film, this is generally discouraged. These props can create a mess, attract pests, and potentially damage the theater screen. Some props are best left out of the participation.
Conclusion: Embracing the Rocky Horror Tradition
Throwing confetti, along with using all the other props, in theaters during The Rocky Horror Picture Show is more than just a quirky fad; it’s a vital part of the film’s enduring appeal. These props transform a passive movie-watching experience into an active, communal, and incredibly fun event. Understanding why people throw confetti in theaters and utilize these props is understanding the heart of The Rocky Horror Picture Show phenomenon: it’s about participation, liberation, and a shared love for a truly unique film. So, next time you attend a screening, grab your confetti and get ready to participate!
