Bloomington, Indiana – It’s time to do the Time Warp again! Constellation Stage & Screen is bringing one of Bloomington’s most beloved cult traditions back to the Buskirk-Chumley Theater (BCT) with two interactive screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Saturday, October 25. Showtimes are set for 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM, and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as prices increase by $5 at the door.
This year marks a double milestone: the 50th anniversary of the 1975 cult classic and the 20th consecutive year that Constellation has hosted the film at the BCT. Over two decades, these screenings have grown into South-Central Indiana’s longest-running Rocky Horror tradition, drawing enthusiastic audiences eager to experience the chaos, humor, and iconic music that have made the film a legend.
Pre-Show Festivities Bring Extra Fun
Thirty minutes prior to each screening, the theater will open for a lively pre-show celebration beginning at 6:30 PM and 10:30 PM. This highly anticipated portion of the evening includes a costume contest, fabulous prizes, and even a playful devirginization ceremony—a nod to the long history of audience participation that defines the Rocky Horror experience.
Hosting this year’s festivities is Bloomington drag queen, producer, and performer Oriana Perón. Known for her quirky, energetic stage presence, Oriana has been delighting audiences across the country since 2006. She combines her love for anime, video games, and musical performance into one-of-a-kind drag acts, and her work has been featured in Crunchyroll, Anime News Network, and Watermark Magazine. “With a mission to create safe, engaging spaces and expand her anime-inspired drag shows internationally, Oriana continues to push the boundaries of performance art while spotlighting other talented nerdy performers,” organizers note.
A Cult Classic That Defies Convention
The Rocky Horror Picture Show follows the misadventures of newly engaged couple Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon) after their car breaks down during a storm. Seeking help, they stumble upon the mysterious mansion of Dr. Frank N. Furter (Tim Curry), a “sweet transvestite” and eccentric scientist. Inside, the pair encounters a host of bizarre and colorful characters: a rocking biker played by Meat Loaf, a creepy butler portrayed by Richard O’Brien, and a pair of enthusiastic groupies.
The narrative builds to the unveiling of Frank’s latest creation, Rocky, a muscular male specimen brought to life in true campy fashion. With elaborate songs, theatrical dance numbers, and scenes that blend humor with the bizarre, the film has captivated audiences for five decades, inspiring a devoted following around the world.
Audience Participation Is Part of the Experience
No Rocky Horror screening would be complete without audience involvement. Fans are encouraged to throw rice, ring bells, shout lines at the screen, and generally revel in the controlled chaos that has become synonymous with the film. To enhance participation, prop bags with themed goodies and participation guides will be available for $5 with tickets or at the show while supplies last.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show has a long history of audience participation,” organizers explain. “These interactions help create the unique, immersive atmosphere that has kept fans coming back year after year.”
A Tradition Worth Celebrating
For many in Bloomington and across South-Central Indiana, the annual Rocky Horror screenings at BCT are more than just a movie night—they are a celebration of creativity, community, and unabashed fun. Costumes, theatrical antics, and audience involvement create a sense of shared experience that has made this annual tradition a staple of local culture.
With its 50th anniversary and 20th year at the BCT, this year’s screenings promise to be especially memorable. From longtime fans to newcomers experiencing the Time Warp for the first time, attendees can expect an evening of wild costumes, outrageous performances, and the signature chaos that has defined The Rocky Horror Picture Show for generations.
Celebrate half a century of the biggest cult classic of all time this October and join in on the madness, the music, and the mayhem at Bloomington’s Buskirk-Chumley Theater.
