The Northwest Indiana Rocky Horror troupe is gearing up for their Saturday performance, showing resilience in the face of loss. The passing of Tim Curry, the actor who brought Dr. Frank-N-Furter to life, deeply impacted the group.
A Legacy to Remember
John Davey, head of the Rocky Horror in Abundance cast, expressed his disbelief about Curry’s death. Curry first played the mad scientist role in the 1973 London stage production of “The Rocky Horror Show” and portrayed it on film in 1975.
Curry’s repertoire included iconic roles in films such as “Clue,” “Annie,” “Home Alone 2,” and as Pennywise in the 1990 TV adaptation of Stephen King’s “It.” He received three Tony nominations during his career.
I enjoy exploring curious aspects of human behavior, as they are more intriguing.– Tim Curry, 1993
Tim Curry passed away at 80 on August 25 in Los Angeles, having suffered a stroke in 2012 that left him unable to walk.
Rocky Horror’s Influence in Indiana
Davey started Northwest Indiana’s first Rocky Horror shadowcast in 1992. Traditional showings involve a costumed cast reenacting the film’s events while the audience participates with props.
The troupe, Rocky Horror in Abundance, now performs at Avenue 912 in Griffith. This Saturday, they are combining Rocky Horror with a Spongebob theme, creating new props and costumes for the event.
Honoring Tim Curry
Holly Schulz, a social media manager for the troupe, remarked on the timing of Curry’s death before the Spongebob show. A tribute to Curry will be included, with Frank-N-Furter portrayed as a Spongebob villain.
Tickets are priced at $12 and can be purchased at the door or online. The next show, a tribute event to Curry, will take place at 9 p.m. on September 24, encouraging attendees to dress as their favorite Tim Curry character.
Ryan “T.R.” Mix, a senior member of the cast, highlighted the group’s commitment, acknowledging how Curry’s death might rekindle interest in the Rocky Horror community.
Community and Identity
The cast consists of about 40 members ranging in age from 18 to 67. Many performers find inspiration in Curry’s portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, echoing Curry’s impact on those who feel like outsiders.
Mix recalled seeing Curry at a convention, where the actor was deeply moved by the support for Rocky Horror.
A Personal Journey
Davey recounted his first Rocky Horror experience as transformative. Drawing the film’s logo on his jacket in school led him to meet lifelong friends.
The Rocky Horror community has provided a sense of belonging and identity to many, echoing Davey’s personal journey.
As the original troupe moved from venue to venue, they stayed committed to their love for performing. Currently, they are settled in Griffith and plan to stay as long as possible.
Taking on the role of Frank-N-Furter is a challenge due to Curry’s influence. Schulz emphasizes how vital Curry’s legacy is, helping people embrace their true selves.
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