Rocky Horror Picture Show @ Iconic Plaza Theatre

The Plaza Theatre in Kensington Halloween Tradition

It has been maybe 15 years since I had last been to The Plaza theatre in the Kensington district of Hillhurst, coincidentally at that time it was for the same Halloween event as this visit last week, a screening of the cult classic film Rocky Horror Picture Show. My first time I had no idea what to expect from the venue or the crowd, this time I was much more prepared and we arrived in full character costume and ready to celebrate the full audience participation screening.

It is a brave act for a theatre like The Plaza to allow the full audience participation viewing of the movie, as the resulting mess from the prop participation is typically horrendous, and this night was exactly that too. The floor of the theatre was still displaying messy remnants of glitter and paper from the screenings which happened not only earlier in the evening but also throughout the week prior. I expect it to take multiple cleanings over weeks before most of the remnants of party favors are able to be cleaned up from the show which ran for multiple screenings over the week leading up to Halloween.

For anyone who is a fan of Rocky Horror, seeing the play in a theatre or seeing the movie in a theatre are both unique experiences and much more fun than simply watching the movie on a screen at home. I recommend every fan get out and try to experience viewing the film this way if they get the chance, knowing it will be a bit crazy, a bit over the top, and a lot of fun. You have to go in with an open mind and willing to be part of the crowd as they play along to the show with props and practiced call outs. It’s understandable that many would find them silly or annoying, but if you embrace them for what they are, they can enhance the unique experience of being part of the movie, not just the audience. Getting out to events like this is a nice departure from our usual weekly trips out to search for the best restaurant in Calgary or the best pub in Calgary.

For many of the Calgary crowd, getting up on the stage and singing and dancing along to The Time Warp is not only a bucket list event but also the highlight of the evening. Even first time viewers of the movie enjoy getting involved, despite their dance moves needing a bit of practice. Check this King Calgary video of the crowd playing along, its all about having fun and getting involved in the craziness.

Overall I was really impressed by The Plaza. They had a decent little concession stand selling movie theatre treats, as well they are licensed so were able to serve adult beverages to the thirsty crowd. The staff was polite, fun and friendly. The vintage interior of the theatre remains intact and it makes for such a cool environment to see a show. I will definitely watch their website and socials to see what upcoming events they have going on. I look forward to returning there and writing more about the historic building and the people behind that business if they will have me.

Special thanks to the crazy group of adventurous Calgarians who dressed up and had fun attending this event throughout the week. Letting lose, having fun, and getting back to living more shared fun experiences is what we ALL need. I encourage anyone who is reading this to get out of their comfort zone, try something new, go someplace different, explore some of the eclectic and different events around the city that you normally wouldn’t think about. If you go to them, I might be there too!

Don’t Dream It, Be It! ~ Tim Curry