The “Time Warp,” a song immortalized in pop culture by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” continues to captivate audiences with its catchy tune and iconic dance moves. Barry Bostwick, one of the film’s original stars, humorously recounts his interactions with fans who ask him about the dance, emphasizing the memorable “pelvic thrust” as his favorite part.
Since its inception, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” has captivated audiences across generations. Starting from its 1973 stage debut in England to the 1975 cult classic film and countless revivals, the musical’s charm has endured. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, a newly restored version of the movie is on tour, and a 4K Blu-ray/DVD release is available, delighting long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Patricia Quinn, who played Magenta, highlights the song’s instructional nature similar to the ‘Hokey Pokey,’ teaching audiences the dance step-by-step. Director Jim Sharman originally conceived the idea during rehearsals in 1973 for “The Rocky Horror Show” stage production, seeking to create a standout number for three characters. These characters, Frank-N-Furter’s flamboyant followers, breathe life into the extraterrestrial scientist’s castle.
Richard O’Brien, also a cast member, crafted “Time Warp” overnight, contributing to the show’s immediate vibrancy. For the subsequent film adaptation, “Time Warp” received a significant revamp, introducing a large ensemble of “Transylvanians” and setting the stage for Curry’s introduction as the “Sweet Transvestite.” Bostwick and Susan Sarandon joined the original cast, playing a naïve couple who find themselves ensnared in Frank-N-Furter’s mesmerizing world.
The sequence was reminiscent of “The Wizard of Oz” according to Bostwick, as it portrayed a curious yet enchanting spectacle, enhanced by the performers’ vibrant personalities. For Nell Campbell, who played Columbia, the film offered not only a platform for a memorable solo moment but also a costume transformation into a dazzling ensemble.
The “Time Warp” dance burst from the screen into real-world celebrations, becoming a staple of weddings, bar mitzvahs, and Halloween events. As captured by Linus O’Brien, director of the “Rocky Horror” documentary “Strange Journey,” the song’s pervasive influence even reached elementary schools, surprising parents with its continued popularity.
Thus, “Time Warp” achieves timelessness, serving as a charming snapshot of the past while maintaining its place as a beloved dance of present-day revelries. Its continued presence in varied cultural contexts highlights the enduring appeal of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”