'Rocky Horror Show' encourages audience participation

Sitting and waiting intently with fish-net stockings and an outfit that would make even Frankenstein blush, Elia Brovarone, a sophomore at the University of Northern Colorado, flaunted her new fashion as she prepared to greet her quirky neighbors from Transylvania.

"I think it helps you get into it and it's tradition, Rocky tradition, to dress up," Brovarone said.

Brovarone wasn't the only one carrying on the tradition, as Transylvanians of all ages converged on the Norton Theatre for the "The Rocky Horror Show," presented by UNC's School of Theater Arts and Dance. The cult classic has inspired audiences for decades to dress in drag and to hurl items such as toast during showings of the play and the movie. At the UNC production, the setting was a bit more strict. Props were not allowed to be thrown at the actors and audience members were not allowed to jump on the stage for the popular "Time Warp" song.

DeAnne George was excited for the play to bring back fond memories of when she first saw it long ago, even if some of her favorite props weren't allowed in the theater. Her friend, Deanna Holmes, was also excited to see the play, albeit for the first time.

"Read the review in the paper, and it's supposed to be very good and loud and very entertaining," Holmes said, with George adding with a laugh, "Even without toast."

For many, however, it was just a chance to have a good time, and continue a tradition.

"My boyfriend dragged me to (Wednesday's show) and he went in full out drag, so I had to dress up, too," Brovarone said.

WHERE TO GO

What: "The Rocky Horror Show"

Where: Norton Theatre in Gray Hall at the University of Northern Colorado

When: Sunday and Tuesday through Nov. 11

Time: 8 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday through Friday and 2 p.m. matinees on Nov. 10-11.

What to know: Call (970) 351-2200 for information and tickets, though most performances are sold out. For mature audiences only.