Northwest Indiana’s Rocky Horror Troupe Honors Tim Curry

Northwest Indiana’s Rocky Horror performers are set to continue their Saturday show after the death of Tim Curry, the actor who famously portrayed Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. John Davey, leader of the Rocky Horror in Abundance troupe, expressed disbelief at Curry’s passing. Curry originated the iconic role in the 1973 London stage production.

“When I found out about Tim, I couldn’t believe it,” said John Davey.

Tim Curry’s career spanned multiple genres. Notable films included Clue, Muppet Treasure Island, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, and Annie. He played Pennywise in the 1990 TV adaptation of Stephen King’s It. He earned three Tony nominations, including one for portraying Mozart in the original Broadway production of Amadeus in 1980. Curry passed away at 80 in his Los Angeles home after a stroke left him unable to walk in 2012.

“I like playing the more curious corners of the human mind and human behavior, partly because they’re a tad more interesting,” Curry said in a 1993 Associated Press interview.

Davey started Northwest Indiana’s first Rocky Horror shadowcast in 1992 at Merrillville’s Loew’s Theater. Traditional showings feature a costumed cast acting alongside the film, with audience participation through props. The shadowcast’s name and venue have changed, but their dedication to Tim Curry remains strong. Currently performing at Avenue 912 in Griffith, their upcoming Spongebob-themed Rocky Horror event showcases new props and costumes crafted over months.

“We want to work in a moving tribute to Tim Curry. So we are probably going to be crying and getting choked up,” said Holly Schulz, cast member and social media manager.

Tickets for Saturday’s performance cost $12 and are available at the door or online. The troupe plans a Tim Curry tribute show on September 24th. Ryan “T.R.” Mix, a cast elder, encourages attendees to dress as Tim Curry characters.

“The love for Rocky Horror has been going strong for 51 years,” Mix said, noting Curry’s influence.

The troupe includes 40 cast and crew members aged 18 to 67. Mix highlighted Curry’s impact on individuals seeking community and confidence through performing.

“For people who come here and want to be performers, Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter is often their inspiration,” Mix reflected.

Fans recall Curry’s touching words at a crowded theater appearance, expressing how the ongoing appreciation for Rocky Horror brought him to tears.

“He said, ‘I’ve had my doubts about Rocky Horror throughout my career, but looking at this room, and seeing what’s become of it, it brings me to tears,’” Mix said.

Curry’s 2025 memoir Vagabond delves into his career and the importance of resonating with fans. Davey shared how Rocky Horror shaped his life, transitioning him from a self-described loner to an enthusiastic fan.

“I was enamored with that film, I had never seen anything like it,” Davey said.

Davey’s encounters with Rocky Horror introduced him to new ideas and a sense of belonging. His mother helped complete his Frank-N-Furter costume, boosting his confidence.

“Walking in Curry’s platform shoes, Davey found a new sense of confidence in himself,” he expressed.

The original troupe staged performances at various locations, establishing a lasting presence within the community. Cast member Holly Schulz emphasized Curry’s profound influence.

“It’s amazing how many people he touched as a performer and as a person,” Schulz said.