Fictional characterFrank-N-Furter in the all-Latino "Rocky Horror Picture Show" shadowcast. Photo: Steph Solis/Axios
A "Rocky Horror Picture Show" production in Boston is catching attention, starting with an actor with an Ecuadorian flag over their suit.
Why it matters: The Full Body Cast — which has put on the show since 1984 — celebrated its first all-Latino shadowcast of the cult classic, a special Hispanic Heritage Month rendition.
The big picture: The all-Hispanic cast may be a first for FBC, but performers say it's also a testament to Latinos' growing presence in the fandom as the film approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025.
Catch up quick: "Rocky Horror Picture Show" is an audacious, absurd outer space musical with a drag queen that has captivated generations.
As is now tradition nationwide, the film will play on a big screen while shadowcasts reenact the scenes live.
It's heavy on audience participation — with people dancing along to the "Time Warp," throwing toilet paper and yelling insults at various characters.
Zoom in: When some fans see it, they think of the telenovelas or variety shows they grew up watching, like "Sábado Gigante."
"It's all ridiculous faces, over-the-top dramatics, people are fainting everywhere, and I think that's really fun," says Alexis Boucugnani, a Cuban American performer who played Janet Weiss.
Between the lines: Latinos around the U.S. have always been a part of the Rocky Horror fandom, but they haven't always been visible, says Paulie DeLarge, creative director of the Ordinary Kids shadowcast in New Jersey.
Only in recent years have casts pledged to make their spaces more welcoming to Rocky Horror fans of various races, ethnicities, sexualities, and body types.
