By  Jessica Martinez
Staff Writer

 One of Bakersfield’s lesser known Halloween traditions is The Empty Space’s production of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” “Rocky Horror” is a cult-classic musical, comedy, horror, and sci-fi film from 1975. The film was written by Richard O’Brien and starred Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, and Barry Bostwick.

 The story begins as newly engaged couple Brad and Janet’s car breaks down during a rainstorm. They walk to the nearest residence in hopes of using a telephone, but stumble upon the mansion belonging to Dr. Frank-n-Furter, a transvestite scientist. Dr. Furter is hosting a convention that evening to unveil his latest creation, a young man named Rocky. Along with Frank-n-Furter’s sidekicks, Riff Raff, Magenta, and Columbia, the evening is a whirlwind of bizzare events beyond Brad and Janet’s imagination.

 In a 2013 interview with The Guardian, O’Brien said, “It’s flawed, there’s no doubt about that. But it’s allowed to be a little bit kitsch, I think, and the flaws are part of that quality.”

 “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” has become a worldwide sensation. Our local production of “Rocky Horror” is put on quarterly by the acting company, The Velvet Darkness, a part of Jaden Snow Productions.

 Jaden Snow, director and producer of the show said, “We have loyal fans who attend every show; however, typically a lot of the audience is composed of people who are experiencing Rocky Horror for the first time. Attendance has been consistent enough for us to keep the show going for the last 10 years.”

 The Rocky Horror Picture Show is performed at midnight at The Empty Space Theatre on Oak Street.  Guests line up outside the doors at 11 p.m. the night of the show. As the theater begins to allow the audience inside, the “virgin” guests are singled out and marked on their faces with a prominent red “V” drawn in lipstick.

 Once seated inside the theater, you’ll find actors in little to no clothing, and some dressed as the opposite sex. Their job is to entertain you until the pre-show begins; this “entertainment” involves whips, lap dances, and strip teases. Without giving away too much, at 11:30, all the “virgins” are summoned to the stage where they participate in special activities until 12:00.

 At midnight, the show begins. The film plays in the background while the cast acts it out live on the stage. The Empty Space is the perfect theater for this production. The tiny venue allows the audience to interact with the actors, which is the best part about “Rocky Horror.” When you first enter the theater, you’ll find staff selling prop bags. You’ll want to grab one these, especially if it’s your first time attending. Inside the bag, you’ll find items like rice, toast, toilet paper, and party poppers that have designated times throughout the show to use or throw at the stage. You will also hear the hardcore fans shouting call back lines at the film. Audience participation is key at this show. Feel free to dress up (technically, dress down) as many fans show up in only their lingerie and high heels for the show.

 Lyzzett Navarro, a CSUB junior and environmental resource management major, has been attending our local “Rocky Horror” shows for eight years. She said, “From the hilarious and awesome audience participation, to the live actors and the ridiculous pre-show games, I think it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. The more that you learn about the fan following of the movie and the audience participation, the more fun it gets. You will love it if you go with an open mind, let go of your idea of normal and have fun.”

The Velvet Darkness will be performing “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at The Empty Space on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 at midnight. Tickets are $10, and prop bags are $3.  Because of the adult content in the show, audience members must be at least 17 years old unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. For this particular show, all guests are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes for the costume contest that will be held.  Reservations can be made by calling (661) 327-7529. This show is an experience that should not be missed. Come do the “Time Warp” at the Empty Space, and be ready to be “thrilled, chilled, and fulfilled.”