A Cult Classic Brings the LGBTQ+ Community Together in Georgia
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show was made for misfits,” says Ele Garuchava, a queer creative director based in Georgia (the country, not the state). The iconic musical comedy horror film has been a sensation since its US release in 1975.
The cult following is still strong! Audiences turn out dressed as RHPS characters at midnight showings, shouting the lines, throwing props, and doing the Time Warp. Did you know the movie is based on a theater production? Ele wants to stage it in Tbilisi.
Ele’s country enacted laws to protect LGBTQ+ people but harassment, bias, and discrimination still exist.
So they live joyously to celebrate their community—parties, drag nights, and local events throughout Tbilisi are fun! The staging of The Rocky Horror Picture Show would be a naturally inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people.
Our grant will help Ele create costumes and props—and we’re betting that even in the Caucasus region the audience will know to bring newspapers, rubber gloves, confetti, and party hats.