Every year, the Fremont Theatre in San Luis Obispo hosts a late night showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show to get in the spirit of Halloween. The globally premiered show is hosted for anyone 18 and over in most major cities; some venues even premiere the production every weekend.

If you’re a veteran that has experienced the madness then you know what to expect, but if you’re a certified virgin (what first-timers are called) then some preparation is necessary. To help you out, underTwentyFun lost our Rocky Horror virginity last night at the Cal Poly Film Production Society’s special screening of the show.

Here’s what we learned to help you survive your first Rocky Horror experience.

Virgins are Sacrificed

Although every Rocky Horror Picture Show is unique, the cast goes above and beyond to make it most memorable for the first timers. Upon entry, each attendee is prompted with the loaded question: “Are you a virgin?” This is just code to differentiate the returners from the newbies, who are then marked with a red ‘V’ on their face.

Before the film begins, the MC brings those marked in the audience up to the stage to compete in some good humored but risqué contests to set the tone for the night. Proclaiming yourself as a virgin requires some bravery, but don’t worry! If you don’t want to participate, you can still enjoy the fun from afar- simply don’t identify yourself as a first timer.

Audience Interaction is Encouraged

Unlike other films in theaters, the Rocky Horror Picture Show is an immersive experience that’s actually defined by audience participation. Although the movie is outrageous enough to stand alone, it often takes a backseat to the other antics that occur.

“It was wacky, raunchy, but totally liberating”

For many audience members, this night is an excuse to fish out the most extravagant costumes from their closet. Men in heels are no rarity here- the flashier the outfit, the better.

“It’s my favorite part about the show,” says Jordan Collins, who often participates in drag shows like Rocky Horror. “The whole thing fosters an environment of self expression and total acceptance. You can be anyone you want here.”

Categorized as a “comedy music horror film,” there are several musical numbers, so be prepared to get out of your seat and dance. Attendees often have dance parties in the isles and sometimes on the stage, especially for the fan favorite song, “Time Warp.”

One thing that truly sets the Rocky Horror culture apart is the alternate “audience participation script” that seasoned veterans yell at the screen throughout the movie. Get ready for the craziest and most profane jokes that you won’t hear anywhere else.

You Don’t Need to Be a Die-Hard Fan to Have Fun

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is infamous for its massive cult following, but even if you don’t consider yourself an Unconventional Conventionalist you can still be part of the fun.

“You get out of it as much as you put into it. Nothing is required.” Cal Poly student Alice Neary explained. “Since this was my first time I was honestly a bit hesitant, but everyone is so encouraging and welcoming that before you even realize you’re dancing and screaming along with everyone else. My cheeks were sore from laughing so hard.”

We definitely recommend this event to you minors who are searching for a weekend activity to spice up your Saturday nights.

“It was wacky, raunchy, but totally liberating,” says attendee Lauren Haas. “There is no doubt I would do it all over again.”

While there is nothing that can fully prep you for the experience, we hope this survival guide gives you the basics to feel confident enough to take the plunge. What you can do is find the next showing near you and in the meantime, practice your Time Warp dance.