Rocky Horror Picture Show already a Galt tradition

By Lethbridge Herald on November 4, 2025.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (RHPS) continues to be screened 50 years after its 1975 premiere, holding the record for the longest-running theatrical release in film history; despite initially being both a critical and box office failure. Screenings, especially around Halloween, continue to be a global cult phenomenon.

For the 50th anniversary a new 4K restoration was released in theaters, supported by a cast member tour, and fan conventions, further cementing its unique place in film history. For its part, the Galt Museum and Archive’s own annual Halloween RHPS screening in partnership with Theatre Outré was back for a third sold-out event Friday.   

“This was our third time partnering with the Galt, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out,” says Theatre Outré general manager Brent Clark. “This event has become something our community looks forward to every year. From the callouts to the interactive activities, it truly delivers an experience you just don’t get from a typical screening.”

After initially bombing at the box office, RHPS gained popularity through midnight theatre screenings where audience participation, including dressing up as characters, talking back to the screen (callouts) and using props and throwing them at the screen became an integral part of the experience.

RHPS screenings are particularly popular around Halloween, with many cities hosting major annual events and “Halloween Balls” featuring live “shadow casts” that act out the film in front of the screen.

The Galt’s RHPS Halloween tradition in partnership with Theatre Outré began in 2022 and continues with showings being held in late October, sometimes on Halloween itself (like this year).

“Each year, the event has grown—our second year added live performances, and this year we introduced a silent auction alongside all the festivities. It’s become a fantastic Halloween tradition for those who love great company, a good drink, a cult classic, and some inspired performances,” says Clark.

The RHPS has had a strong and long-standing association with the LGBTQ+ community from its very beginning and continues to be a highly inclusive event, largely because of its themes of sexual liberation, gender non-conformity, and its unique interactive viewing experience.

“I think events like this encourage people to face their fears around self-expression—or anything else they may be struggling with in everyday life,” says Clark. “To me, confidence is everything. Taking that next step toward becoming the person you want to be, rather than just imagining it, can lead to an entirely new level of confidence, positivity, and well-being.”

The RHPS culture surrounding the live screenings and audience participation is famously welcoming to newcomers (called “virgins”) from all walks of life provided they have a sense of humor and a willingness to engage with the experience.

The film’s chaotic and rebellious spirit encourages a broad audience to challenge traditional societal norms and explore their own boundaries, making it a refuge for anyone who feels like an outsider. 

For those who want to experience RHPS for themselves in 2026, think and plan ahead.

“We typically release tickets on Oct. 1, so anyone interested should keep an eye out,” says Clark. “It’s been three years since my first Rocky Horror experience, and I still remember how incredible it felt to see what all the excitement was about. Experiencing the callouts and the audience participation for the first time completely changed how I saw the film—it was such a fun, one-of-a-kind way to watch a movie.”