The Paramount Theater of Charlottesville

“Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQs”) about The Paramount Theater’s screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Our goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable and authentic “Rocky Horror experience,” without damage to person, property, or the historic Paramount Theater. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

1. Is there other entertainment that night?
We will be hosting a costume contest for all audience members. If you would like to enter the contest you will need to be registered by 9:00pm inside the theater.

2. Is the stage open during the movie?
No. We hope to have some professional performers at this screening, so we will not have the stage open to audience members.

3. Can I use props?
Yes, The Paramount will sell a limited amount of “prop kits.” You may bring your own as well, but there are some rules and restrictions.

4. Well, what are those rules and restrictions?
Yes. Please note the following:

• The Paramount Theater reserves the right to determine what is allowed into the venue.
• All persons and property are subject to search upon entry.
• Anything that is not allowed will be confiscated.
• Foodstuffs are explicitly not allowed. They create a slip hazard, are hard to clean, and will spoil and attract rodents and vermin. This includes, but is not limited to Rocky Horror props like rice, toast, hot dogs and prunes.
• The use of lighters and matches is prohibited. They’re obviously a fire hazard.
• Do not throw anything at the screen. It’s expensive and we might prosecute if damaged.
• Do not throw anything at anyone else. They might prosecute if damaged.
• Violators will be subject to ejection without warning.

Here is a somewhat comprehensive list of what is and is not allowed, along with suggestions for their use during the movie:

Balloons
Allowed? Yes. Use: During the song “Science Fiction Double Feature,” pop the balloon when the movie When Worlds Collide is mentioned.

Rice
Allowed? NO! Why? It is very difficult to clean, it makes the floor slippery, and can attract rodents and vermin.

Confetti
Allowed? NO. Why? It is very difficult to clean, it makes the floor slippery, and it’s known as the herpes of art supplies.

Large “J”-“A”-“N”-“E”-“T” cards
Allowed? Yes. Use: during “Dammit Janet” when Brad says Janet’s name, and also when he spells out Janet’s name, use each letter as he spells it.

Large “Oh” “B”-“R”-“A”-“D” cards
Allowed? Yes. Use: during “Dammit Janet.”

Water Guns
Allowed? Yes. HOWEVER, only water guns the size of your palm will be permitted into the theater. Use: during the song “There’s a Light (Over at the Frankenstein Place),” after they get out of the car, and are walking in the rain. Don’t squirt directly at any performers or audience members!

Tommy Guns
Allowed? No. Why? Because.

Glow Sticks and Flashlights
Allowed? Yes. Use: During the song “There’s a Light (Over at the Frankenstein Place),” wave your light during the chorus of “There’s a Light.” Conceal it when they say, “In the darkness.”

Fire Hazards
Allowed? No.

Lighters and Matches
Allowed? No. They’re fire hazards.

Rubber Gloves
Allowed? Yes. Use: During Frank’s speech at the tank when he puts on the gloves, stretches and snaps them.

Noisemakers
Allowed? Yes. Use: During the Lab scene, when the Transylvanian Guests use their noisemakers.

Toilet Paper
Allowed? Yes. Use: When Dr. Scott makes his entrance and Brad exclaims “Great Scott!” Wait for the line, and don’t throw it until Dr. Scott crashes through the wall.

Newspaper
Allowed? Yes. Use: When it starts raining. Duh.

Toast
Allowed? No! We know it’s a seminal Rocky Horror prop, but it is very difficult to clean, can make the floor slippery, and even crumbs will attract vermin and rodents.

Paper Plates
Allowed? Yes. Use: When Frank pulls the table cloth off the dinner table.

Bell
Allowed? Yes. Use: During the song “Planet Schmanet,” after dinner, when Frank chases Janet and asks the musical question, “Did you hear a bell ring?” Your keys work too.

Dry Sponges
Allowed? Yes. Use: During Columbia’s speech, when she says to Frank, “you’re like a sponge!”

Rope
Yes. Use: When the rope falls from the rigging after Riff finishes shooting.

Hot Dog and Prunes
Allowed? NO! Foodstuffs will inevitably attract rodents and vermin.

Again, our goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable and authentic “Rocky Horror experience,” without damage to person, property, or the historic Paramount Theater. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.”