Time Warping in the Sunshine State: Florida’s Best Rocky Horror Picture Show Events

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When the clock strikes midnight and the moon is high, the fans of cult classics gather in Florida, ready to do the Time Warp again at some of the most extravagant and engaging Rocky Horror Picture Show events in the country. The state’s enthusiastic embrace of this iconic film brings forth an array of celebrations, filled with singing, dancing, shadow-casting performances, and of course, plenty of rice and toast.

History About The Rocky Horror Picture Show

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” a cult classic and iconic film, has a rich history intertwined with LGBTQ+ involvement. Released in 1975, the movie was an adaptation of the 1973 British stage musical “The Rocky Horror Show” by Richard O’Brien. Directed by Jim Sharman, the film was initially met with mixed reviews and struggled at the box office. However, its fate took a dramatic turn when it found a new life in midnight screenings, particularly in New York City’s Waverly Theater (now the IFC Center).

The film’s themes of sexual liberation, gender fluidity, and nonconformity resonate strongly with LGBTQ+ audiences. “Rocky Horror” offered a space for people to explore and express their own identities and desires in a time when mainstream culture was often repressive and judgmental. The character of Dr. Frank N. Furter, a charismatic and pansexual mad scientist portrayed by Tim Curry, became an LGBTQ+ icon, inspiring many to accept their own sexuality and their inner “sweet transvestite.” Over the years, “Rocky Horror” became a symbol of acceptance and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community.

Fort Walton Beach

Rocky Horror Murder Mystery

AJ’s on the Bayou, 200 Eglin Parkway NE, Fort Walton Beach

Step into a thrilling Halloween adventure at AJ’s on the Bayou with the Rocky Horror Murder Mystery! Test your detective skills in this interactive murder mystery dinner hosted by Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre – Gulf Coast. Enjoy a delicious meal and immerse yourself in this Rocky Horror-themed mystery show where you become the detective. With live actors, comedic interactions, and physical clues, you’ll work alongside fellow audience members to solve the intriguing ‘murder’ by unraveling character motives and spoken dialogue.

Jacksonville

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Come Time Warp your way to an amazing night at the Florida Theatre as Karrissa Wade hosts the famous Rocky Horror Picture Show, featuring Annie Dukes. This Halloween, join the fun with this classic movie that’s so special it’s kept in the Library of Congress! Wear your coolest costumes, bring your props (but please, no meat), and come early for some live music – you’re in for an unforgettable time.

Rocky Horror Dinner Drag Show

Be a part of the excitement at their Rocky Horror Dinner Show at Tulua Bistro in Jacksonville Beach. This exclusive annual event is for those aged 18 and older and offers an interactive experience. You’ll be treated to an incredible performance by beloved local Drag stars. Plus, you can choose your dinner entrée from a selection that includes vegan, seafood, or steak options. Seating is at communal tables, so you’ll have the chance to make new friends and enjoy the show to the fullest!

Gainesville

The Rocky Horror Picture Show! LIVE on Stage

Embrace yourself for a wild night of cult cinema at the Annual Rocky Horror Picture Show LIVE on Stage at High Dive in Gainesville! This unforgettable event features the local troupe Frankie and the Pretenders, performing live skits alongside the iconic movie. Join in the fun with audience participation, but remember, it’s 18 and over only. You will not want to miss this annual fall extravaganza.

Rocky Horror Picture Show LIVE

Dive into the electrifying world of Rocky Horror LIVE, a dynamic Shadow Cast rendition of the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show at the The Backyard at Boca Fiesta & Palomino. Enjoy audience participation, contests, and prizes. Before the show, partake in fun activities, chat with the cast, and join costume and dance competitions.

DeLand

The Rocky Horror Picture Show With Shadow Cast

Deck yourself out in a leather jacket, corset, and fishnet tights for an evening of unparalleled excitement at the Athens Theatre. Kick off the evening with a pre-show featuring DeLand Pride and the Absent Friends. Then, enjoy the 1975 film with a live shadow cast that adds an interactive twist. Dance, join in with call backs, and use prop bags to fully immerse yourself in the event. The ‘midnight showing’ has been moved up to 8:00 p.m. to welcome a wider audience, inviting everyone to come in costume, sing along, dance, and participate with approved props.

Sanford

The Rocky Horror Picture Show Movie With Shadow Cast

Join the fun at the Ritz Theater Sanford for ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show.’ The Rich Weirdos shadow cast will perform alongside the film. Dress up in fishnet stockings, stilettos, and red lipstick, and remember your rubber gloves, flashlight, or glow stick for an evening of singing and embracing the Rocky Horror spirit. Prop bags can be purchased at the door, and newcomers are welcome to participate in the rituals with added humor and debauchery from the shadow cast. Please note that this event is rated R, and those under 18 will not be admitted, even with adult supervision. This event is presented in partnership with the City of Sanford.

Melbourne

The Rocky Horror Picture Show Feat. Dynamic Tension

Participate in ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ featuring the Dynamic Tension Shadow Cast at CWTheaters West Melbourne 15. This seasoned team has been delighting Brevard County with the cult classic for over two decades, bringing it to life on both screen and stage. Dressing up in costumes is encouraged, and be sure to secure your reservations in advance, as this event is a local staple. Don’t miss the chance to pick up prop bags.

Lakeland

Rocky Horror Live With Hell On Heels

Prepare for a thrilling evening at the Silvermoon Drive-In. You’re invited to ‘Rocky Horror Live,’ presented by ARC Towing and Howl at The Moon Events. This event features the classic movie and a live, interactive cast from Hell on Heels, Tampa Bay’s Rocky Horror Live Cast. Dress up in your best costume and be part of the fun.

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St. Petersburg

Bands From The Dead Retro 80’s & Costume Party+ Rocky Horror w/Hell On Heels

Adventure out for a night of retro 80’s rock and costumes at The Floridian Social. Enjoy live performances by your favorite local musicians, as they pay tribute to iconic bands like Judas Priest, Aerosmith, Queen, and Motley Crue. Don’t forget to dress up in your best costume for a chance to win a $100 prize for the best outfit. Then, at midnight, get ready for the annual screening of the ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, featuring the fabulous HELL ON HEELS cast! It’s a one-of-a-kind party you won’t want to miss!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Have an unforgettable night featuring Barry Bostwick, the original ‘Brad Majors’ at the Mahaffey Theater. You’ll witness the unedited ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ with a live shadow cast by Tampa Bay’s Hell on Heels, and you can actively participate in the show. Immerse yourself in the movie’s history through a memorabilia display featuring artifacts and an actual movie costume. Don’t forget to compete in the costume contest and enjoy other surprises! Grab V.I.P. tickets, which offer a Meet & Greet with Barry Bostwick, personal photo opportunities, and autographs. And be sure to pick up your Participation Bags in the lobby to enhance your participation.

Sarasota

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Immerse yourself in ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall with Barry Bostwick, host Larry Viezel, and the shadow cast Hell on Heels. Enjoy the original unedited movie with audience participation, a memorabilia display, a costume contest, and more! Get exclusive V.I.P. tickets for a Meet & Greet with Barry Bostwick, and don’t forget Participation bags available in the lobby.

Fort Myers

Rocky Horror Picture Show Outdoor Movie Event

Get ready for a night of time-warping fun at the annual Rocky Horror Picture Show Outdoor Movie Event, hosted at the Alliance for the Arts. Join the interactive outdoor movie night celebrating the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show at their amphitheater lawn. Enjoy dancing, shouting, and props as you watch the film. Take in the Rocky Horror spirit with contests, food trucks, and vendors under the starry sky. Remember to bring your own seating, and drink tickets are available. This 18+ event promises a memorable night.

Rocky Horror Picture Show With Shadow Cast

Indulge in a thrilling evening at Snappers Comedy Club with the Rocky Horror Picture Show and a Shadow Cast performance by Haus of Drag. Join in the fun on Friday the 13th for an interactive drag show happening alongside the classic movie. You’ll enjoy performances by your favorite drag kings, queens, and those who defy categories. Don’t forget to grab your goodie bags before they run out, and enjoy a diverse menu of food and drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Miami

O Cinema Presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Slip into your fishnets and sharpen those stilettos for a night of fun and fetish at O Cinema’s annual Halloween screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Miami Beach Bandshell. This isn’t just a movie; it’s a space where you become both the cast and the audience, with shout outs encouraged. Whether you dress up as your favorite RHP character or in a ghoulish costume, you’re invited to participate in the Freak Show Fashion Parade, hosted by O Cinema’s Mistress of Ceremonies, Yoko Oso, and featuring music by DJ Cavaliere Inesistente. Arrive early, and you’ll receive an exclusive Virgin Kit Prop Bag to join in on the mayhem. Feel free to bring your own prop bags, but please leave out water guns, lighters, or wieners.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Attend ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, where the original Brad Majors, Barry Bostwick, will be present for a screening of the unedited movie. This live shadow cast event includes audience participation and VIP tickets offering the opportunity to meet Bostwick, who has portrayed Brad Majors for nearly 50 years. Enjoy a costume contest and explore a memorabilia display featuring artifacts and iconic film costumes. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the Rocky Horror tradition.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Step into the enchanting world of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ at Pinecrest Gardens. Embrace this iconic cult classic, which holds the record as the longest-running theatrical release in film history. Beyond being a mere movie, it’s a social phenomenon you won’t want to miss. Get into the spirit by wearing your costume and bringing your props, and don’t miss the Costume Contest. Pre-registration is required for this unforgettable event.

A Rocky Horror Celebration Like No Other

The spirit of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ thrives like nowhere else, where cult classics become immersive experiences and fans unite for a night of exhilaration and camaraderie. Florida’s finest Rocky Horror events, from interactive screenings to shadow casts, costume contests, and live performances, embody the essence of this iconic film’s enduring appeal. As audiences continue to shout ‘Dammit, Janet!’ and do the ‘Time Warp,’ these events showcase the timeless magic of Rocky Horror, proving that in Florida, the show must—and will—go on, ensuring a ‘sweet transvestite’ of a night that’s ‘just a jump to the left’ for every fan.

**Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate or sponsor links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful).

Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.

All events are subject to change. Please check the events webpage for updates and schedules.