The referenced phrase denotes screenings of the cult traditional movie, “The Rocky Horror Image Present,” inside the metropolis of Madison, Wisconsin. This cinematic expertise sometimes entails viewers participation, together with call-backs, costuming, and prop utilization, enhancing the standard viewing of the film.
The continued presence of those screenings in Madison supplies a constant venue for neighborhood engagement and creative expression. Traditionally, “The Rocky Horror Image Present” has fostered inclusive environments, permitting people to discover themes of id and self-acceptance. Moreover, the recurring occasions contribute to the native arts and leisure scene, supporting efficiency teams and associated companies.
Subsequent sections will discover particular venues, efficiency troupes, and viewers traditions related to these Madison-based displays. Additional evaluation may also take into account the cultural significance of this distinctive interactive cinematic occasion inside the broader context of Madison’s leisure panorama.
1. Native Venue Historical past
The enduring phenomenon that’s “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison, Wisconsin, is intrinsically tied to the areas which have hosted its unorthodox magic. The narrative of its native presence is not only a narrative of a movie screened, however a chronicle of neighborhood constructed inside the partitions of specific institutions, every leaving its distinctive mark on the expertise.
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The Barrymore Theatre: An Early Epicenter
The Barrymore, a historic Madison theater, served as one of many earlier, important venues for the movie’s participatory screenings. Its giant capability and established presence inside the citys cultural panorama allowed “Rocky Horror” to succeed in a wider viewers. The reminiscences solid inside its partitions turned foundational to town’s distinctive efficiency occasions.
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The Orpheum Theatre: A Downtown Fixture
For a interval, The Orpheum Theatre, one other key downtown venue, hosted common screenings. Its central location and traditional theater ambiance supplied a unique context in comparison with smaller or various areas. Internet hosting the movie downtown made it extra accessible, drawing bigger crowds and additional embedding it into town’s cultural material. The grand structure of The Orpheum added a layer of theatricality to the screenings.
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Smaller Cinemas and Various Areas: Nurturing Experimentation
Past the bigger theaters, smaller cinemas and various efficiency areas have additionally performed a job, typically fostering extra experimental and intimate experiences. These venues typically allowed for higher freedom in efficiency and prop utilization. This enabled native shadow casts to develop their very own distinctive types and interpretations of the movie. It provided a extra area of interest expertise inside Madison.
The historical past of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison is subsequently additionally a historical past of the areas which have supplied it a house. From grand theaters to intimate cinemas, every venue has contributed to the movie’s distinctive id inside the metropolis. These areas should not mere backdrops; they’re integral parts of the general expertise, shaping viewers participation, shadow solid performances, and the movie’s ongoing legacy in Madison.
2. Viewers Participation Traditions
The essence of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison, Wisconsin, transcends a mere movie screening; it’s an immersive ritual solid within the fires of viewers participation. This custom, removed from being a spontaneous outburst, is a rigorously curated script of call-and-response, prop deployment, and costumed reverence. It transforms a passive viewing expertise right into a dynamic, communal efficiency. The shouts of “Slut!” and “Asshole!” throughout particular character introductions, the spraying of water through the rain scene, the throwing of rice through the wedding ceremony these should not random acts of chaos, however meticulously ingrained parts of the Madison expertise. With out this lively engagement, the movie’s Madison presence can be a pale imitation of its true, vibrant self. Take into account, for example, a screening years in the past at The Orpheum: a first-timer, unfamiliar with the traditions, sat bewildered as the group erupted in a choreographed frenzy. It was solely when a seasoned attendee, seeing the newcomer’s confusion, provided a bag of rice and whispered the cues that they started to grasp the underlying construction of the obvious insanity.
The significance of those traditions extends past easy leisure. They function an important hyperlink between generations of “Rocky Horror” fans in Madison. The rituals are handed down, tailored, and typically even subtly altered, guaranteeing that the expertise stays each acquainted and recent. Shadow casts, the dwell efficiency teams that act out the movie in entrance of the display, play an important function in sustaining these traditions. They act as each enforcers and innovators, guiding the viewers by way of the established routines whereas additionally introducing new parts of humor and social commentary. The prop utilization, equally, is rigorously managed whereas there are conventional gadgets like newspapers for Janet’s head and noisemakers for the creation scene, the shadow casts typically set pointers to keep away from extreme mess or potential security hazards. This curation protects the expertise. The custom strengthens the bonds between neighborhood members from totally different backgrounds over time.
In summation, the viewers participation traditions should not merely an add-on to the “Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison; they’re its lifeblood. They dictate the rhythm, tone, and character of the screenings. The lively involvement converts a easy movie screening into an expertise of inclusive custom that is been celebrated in Madison. The Madison neighborhood cherishes this custom. With out the shouting, the rice, the water weapons, and the shared sense of joyful transgression, the movie’s Madison legacy can be incomplete, a mere shadow of the colourful, participatory spectacle it has develop into. The preservation and evolution of those traditions are subsequently essential to the movie’s persevering with relevance and the continued well being of Madison’s “Rocky Horror” neighborhood.
3. Shadow Solid Performances
The flickering picture on the display is simply half the story. In Madison, Wisconsin, the true heartbeat of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” resides not simply within the movie itself, however within the fervent power of the shadow solid performances. These should not mere replications of the on-screen motion; they’re residing, respiratory interpretations that elevate the movie from a cult traditional to a communal ritual. They remodel the cinema right into a participatory theater, the place the boundaries between viewers and performer blur, and the spirit of Frank-N-Furter finds new life with every efficiency.
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Native Interpretation and Id
Every shadow solid in Madison brings its personal distinct taste to the efficiency. This manifests in costuming selections, character interpretations, and the inclusion of native in-jokes or references. For instance, one Madison solid may emphasize the camp and theatrics of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, whereas one other may lean into the character’s darker, extra subversive elements. These selections form the viewers’s expertise, creating a way of possession and pleasure of their native “Rocky Horror” scene. The character adaptation showcases the character of the Madison group of followers.
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Synchronization and Innovation
The problem for any shadow solid is to seamlessly synchronize their efficiency with the movie. They need to mirror the actors’ actions, ship traces with precision, and react to the on-screen motion in real-time. Nevertheless, the most effective casts additionally discover methods to innovate, including their very own comedic prospers, improvisational moments, and visible gags. This mix of faithfulness and originality retains the performances recent and fascinating, even for many who have seen the movie numerous instances. Many shadow casts add trendy political commentaries of their script to make them related to the youthful era.
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Group Constructing and Mentorship
Shadow casts are extra than simply efficiency teams; they’re tight-knit communities. They provide an area for people to precise themselves, develop their skills, and forge lasting friendships. Inside these teams, skilled performers typically mentor newcomers, passing down the traditions and methods of “Rocky Horror” efficiency. This creates a cycle of studying and progress, guaranteeing the longevity of the native scene. It provides a protected house for individuals to be bizarre and have enjoyable.
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Venue Adaptation and Interplay
The particular venue the place a shadow solid performs considerably impacts their method. A big theater permits for elaborate units and dynamic staging, whereas a smaller, extra intimate house encourages direct interplay with the viewers. Whatever the venue, profitable casts discover methods to make use of the house to their benefit, creating a novel and immersive expertise for everybody in attendance. They remodel the venue right into a stage for an incredible present.
In conclusion, the shadow solid performances in Madison should not merely an accompaniment to the movie; they’re an integral part of town’s “Rocky Horror Image Present” expertise. By means of native interpretation, synchronization and innovation, neighborhood constructing, and venue adaptation, these casts remodel a easy film screening right into a vibrant, residing murals. They’re the guardians of custom, the instigators of enjoyable, and the center of Madison’s distinctive “Rocky Horror” neighborhood. The story of “rocky horror image present madison wi” is as a lot their story as it’s the movie’s.
4. Prop Utilization Pointers
In Madison, Wisconsin, the unwritten guidelines governing prop utilization throughout screenings of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” function an important, typically unseen, framework. These pointers, developed organically over years of enthusiastic participation, guarantee a steadiness between unbridled viewers engagement and the preservation of a protected, fulfilling surroundings for all. The story of those pointers shouldn’t be one among strict enforcement however relatively of a neighborhood self-regulating to guard its distinctive custom. It started subtly; an errant glob of shaving cream flung with an excessive amount of power, a water pistol wielded with extra exuberance than intention. Over time, these incidents prompted a collective consciousness of the necessity for boundaries. Shadow casts, performing as each performers and casual custodians of the expertise, started subtly speaking expectations: a quiet phrase to a first-timer brandishing a very highly effective water gun, a mild suggestion to make use of newspaper squares as an alternative of complete broadsheets through the rain scene.
The affect of those pointers is palpable at any Madison screening. The rice, thrown through the wedding ceremony scene, is distributed in small, manageable baggage, stopping slippery circumstances and potential spills. The usage of noisemakers is inspired, however restricted to particular moments, stopping a continuing cacophony that will detract from the movie. Shaving cream, a conventional component, is utilized sparingly, avoiding extreme mess and potential hazards. The appliance of those unstated guidelines illustrates a cause-and-effect relationship: unchecked prop utilization results in disruption and potential hurt, whereas conscious participation enhances the expertise for everybody. For instance, take into account a previous screening at The Barrymore. A bunch, new to the custom, arrived with baggage of glitter, aspiring to bathe the viewers throughout a specific scene. Earlier than they might unleash their shimmering payload, a member of the shadow solid politely intervened, explaining the theater’s coverage in opposition to glitter as a result of problem of cleanup and potential allergic reactions. The group, initially upset, finally complied, understanding the necessity to respect the venue and fellow attendees. This small act averted a possible catastrophe and bolstered the significance of those understood customs. Madison’s prop utilization pointers should not a set of strictly guidelines, however understanding helps preserve the custom alive and protected.
Finally, the prop utilization pointers in Madison replicate a deep understanding of what makes town’s “Rocky Horror Image Present” expertise particular. They’re a testomony to the neighborhood’s dedication to each custom and duty. The rules, although largely unstated, are always bolstered by way of refined cues, light reminders, and a shared understanding that the purpose is to rejoice the movie in a approach that’s each exuberant and respectful. This steadiness ensures that “rocky horror image present madison wi” stays a vibrant and inclusive cultural touchstone for years to return, a testomony to the facility of self-regulation and communal spirit in preserving a beloved, if unconventional, custom. These customs assist the efficiency keep true to the Rocky Horror’s themes.
5. Themed Occasion Nights
Inside the vibrant ecosystem of “rocky horror image present madison wi,” themed occasion nights symbolize a major evolutionary leap. What started as a easy screening developed right into a dynamic spectacle. Themed evenings add layers of creativity and neighborhood engagement. These occasions should not random occurrences; they’re rigorously orchestrated celebrations that amplify the movie’s inherent camp and encourage bolder expressions of fandom. Themed nights present a focus for creativity, inflicting attendees to delve deeper into the movie’s aesthetic. For instance, a “Transylvanian Promenade” evening transforms the venue right into a weird, glitter-strewn dance corridor. Attendees craft elaborate costumes impressed by the movie’s characters. It makes the occasion greater than only a screening, it makes it a celebration. Themed evenings elevate participation.
The impact of themed occasion nights goes past mere costume contests. These nights present a chance for the shadow solid to include new routines and gags. A “Science Gone Mad” evening may see the solid introducing laboratory-themed props and altering their performances. This retains the expertise recent for returning attendees. The significance of those occasions to the sustainability of “rocky horror image present madison wi” is plain. They inject new life into a well-known custom, attracting new audiences. The social media buzz generated by these themed nights interprets into ticket gross sales and elevated visibility for the Madison “Rocky Horror” scene. Common followers are additionally incentivized to maintain attending screenings.
In conclusion, themed occasion nights should not a peripheral component, however relatively a core part of “rocky horror image present madison wi”. They symbolize a acutely aware effort to construct upon the movie’s legacy. This creates a extra immersive and fascinating expertise. Whereas the collection of themes requires cautious consideration to keep away from alienating core followers, the general affect is overwhelmingly optimistic. These nights make sure that the Madison screenings stay an important and evolving a part of town’s cultural panorama. The themed occasions provide one thing totally different for everybody.
6. Group Constructing Impression
For many years, “rocky horror image present madison wi” has been greater than only a late-night film screening. It has served as an incubator for a novel neighborhood, a haven for people searching for belonging and self-expression inside the broader Madison panorama. The movie itself, with its themes of liberation, acceptance, and embracing the unconventional, acts as a catalyst. It attracts collectively people who resonate with its message, making a shared expertise that transcends the boundaries of age, background, and social standing. The impact is tangible: strangers develop into pals, acquaintances remodel into cohorts. The theater turns into a protected house the place one’s true colours can fly free beneath the duvet of call-backs and punctiliously choreographed prop deployment. The trigger is the film, however the impact is Madison neighborhood.
The significance of this community-building facet can’t be overstated. In a world typically outlined by division and isolation, “rocky horror image present madison wi” supplies a constant, dependable anchor. It creates a social circle for people who may in any other case really feel marginalized or disconnected. Native shadow casts, the efficiency teams that animate the movie on stage, embody this dynamic. Many members be a part of not only for the creative outlet, but in addition for the sense of camaraderie and assist. Lengthy-term members mentor newcomers, passing down not solely the efficiency traditions but in addition the values of acceptance and inclusivity. Think about a youngster, new to Madison and struggling to seek out their place, attending a screening for the primary time. Amidst the chaos of the viewers participation and the spectacle of the shadow solid, they discover a sense of recognition, a sense of lastly being understood. They’re welcomed into the fold, provided a script, a bag of rice, and a understanding smile. The movie screenings assist with inclusion for locals and newcomers.
In conclusion, understanding the community-building affect of “rocky horror image present madison wi” is essential to appreciating its enduring significance. It isn’t merely a couple of cult movie; it is in regards to the human connections solid inside its unconventional framework. The problem lies in guaranteeing that this neighborhood stays open and welcoming to future generations, preserving the spirit of inclusivity that has outlined it for thus lengthy. By recognizing and nurturing the social bonds created by way of these screenings, Madison can proceed to rejoice a convention that enriches the lives of its residents and strengthens the material of town itself. Rocky Horror Image present in Madison is about neighborhood and constructing bonds.
7. Costume Contest Tradition
Inside the particular context of “rocky horror image present madison wi,” costume contests should not mere adjuncts to the screenings; they symbolize a concentrated expression of dedication, creativity, and the inherent performativity that defines the occasion. These contests function a focus, drawing individuals right into a spirited competitors the place elaborate recreations, ingenious interpretations, and sheer audacity are celebrated. The trigger is the movie, however the impact is a vibrant show of artistry. The significance of this part is its means to amplify the viewers’s engagement, reworking spectators into lively contributors to the spectacle. Take into account, for instance, an annual occasion held at The Barrymore Theatre: A neighborhood artist, identified for his or her meticulous craftsmanship, spends months establishing a totally practical reproduction of Frank-N-Furters platform boots. The artists dedication demonstrates the extreme ardour that fuels this specific tradition.
The sensible software of understanding this costume contest tradition lies in appreciating its function as a driver of neighborhood. The competition fosters camaraderie as individuals alternate ideas, share supplies, and admire every others creations. It additionally supplies a platform for self-expression, permitting people to embody characters and discover themes that resonate with them. The affect extends past the occasion itself, as costume development turns into a year-round exercise, constructing anticipation and sustaining curiosity within the “Rocky Horror” neighborhood. As well as, there are numerous costume contests being held in Madison that assist elevate consciousness of native expertise.
In abstract, the costume contest tradition intertwined with “rocky horror image present madison wi” shouldn’t be a frivolous add-on. It is a important component that enhances the expertise. By appreciating its significance and the dedication it conjures up, occasion organizers and neighborhood members can work to foster a welcoming and inclusive surroundings for individuals of all talent ranges, guaranteeing that the custom continues to thrive. These celebrations strengthen native bonds.
8. “Time Warp” Ritual
The “Time Warp,” inside the framework of “rocky horror image present madison wi,” exists as greater than a easy dance. It’s a ritual, a communal act of defiance in opposition to the mundane. It’s the electrical pulse that binds disparate people right into a unified, synchronized entity, nonetheless briefly. The trigger is a catchy tune and easy directions, however the impact is transformative. The significance of this ritual lies in its means to distill the essence of the whole “Rocky Horror” expertise: participation, liberation, and a shared sense of joyful absurdity. For newcomers to Madison’s screenings, the “Time Warp” typically serves as an initiation. Standing hesitantly on the periphery, observing the practiced actions of the seasoned attendees, a alternative presents itself: stay an observer, or give up to the rhythm and be a part of the collective. Most of the time, the infectious power of the group proves irresistible.
Take into account the story of a neighborhood Madison resident, a reserved accountant named Arthur, who, for years, had lived a lifetime of quiet routine. Intrigued by the persistent rumors of “The Rocky Horror Image Present,” he reluctantly attended a screening. Initially, Arthur remained seated, arms crossed, a bemused expression on his face. Then got here the “Time Warp.” Because the opening bars stuffed the theater, a wave of movement swept by way of the group. Seeing the uninhibited pleasure on the faces round him, Arthur discovered himself drawn in. Hesitantly, he rose, fumbled with the steps, and finally, to his personal astonishment, started to maneuver in sync with the remaining. That evening, Arthur did not simply watch “The Rocky Horror Image Present;” he participated in it, reworked by it. From that time ahead, he turned a daily attendee, a convert to the church of the “Time Warp.” This story underscores the potential of the ritual to interrupt down social limitations and unlock hidden reserves of spontaneity. It speaks to the facility of communal expertise in fostering a way of belonging and private liberation. The Time Warp helps individuals really feel much less alone.
The “Time Warp” ritual linked to “rocky horror image present madison wi” subsequently capabilities as each a microcosm of the broader expertise and a gateway to deeper engagement. It’s a reminder that inside the darkened theater, amidst the call-backs and costumes, lies an area the place inhibitions could be shed, and a way of shared id could be solid. Understanding this significance is essential to appreciating the enduring attraction of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison, and its means to repeatedly evolve and adapt whereas sustaining its core values of inclusivity and joyful subversion. The expertise is greater than only a movie; it is a neighborhood, constructed round shared traditions, and the straightforward act of doing the “Time Warp” once more. Doing Time Warp is among the high issues to do on the Rocky Horror Image Present.
Incessantly Requested Questions
Many inquiries come up regarding the specifics of attending and taking part in screenings of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” inside Madison, Wisconsin. The next addresses some generally held curiosities.
Query 1: What distinguishes a “Rocky Horror Image Present” screening in Madison from a standard film viewing expertise?
The essence lies in lively participation. Madison’s screenings contain viewers call-backs, costuming, and the usage of props. It transforms a passive viewing right into a dynamic, theatrical occasion. Attendees are inspired to have interaction straight with the movie, creating a novel and immersive expertise.
Query 2: The place can info relating to upcoming screenings be discovered?
Native leisure listings, venue web sites (reminiscent of The Barrymore Theatre or The Orpheum Theatre), and social media teams devoted to the movie inside Madison are major sources. These sources sometimes present dates, instances, and any particular theme evening bulletins.
Query 3: Are there particular pointers for prop utilization at Madison screenings?
Whereas formal guidelines might not at all times be explicitly acknowledged, a common understanding prevails: props ought to improve the expertise with out inflicting disruption or hazard. Restraint in the usage of doubtlessly messy gadgets (e.g., shaving cream, water) is usually anticipated. The shadow solid typically subtly guides prop utilization.
Query 4: What’s the function of the “shadow solid” at these occasions?
The shadow solid performs the movie dwell, performing out scenes in entrance of the display in sync with the film. This dwell efficiency amplifies the theatrical facet and encourages viewers interplay. Every Madison-based solid might provide its personal distinct interpretation of the characters and scenes.
Query 5: Is costuming obligatory for attendance?
Costuming shouldn’t be obligatory however is strongly inspired. Many attendees select to decorate as their favourite characters, contributing to the general environment of the occasion. Even first-timers are welcome to decorate up or just observe.
Query 6: Is there a price related to attending “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison?
Sure. Normal ticket costs apply for admission to the venues internet hosting the screenings. Moreover, attendees typically buy prop kits or particular person gadgets to boost their participation, incurring additional expense.
In abstract, attending “The Rocky Horror Image Present” in Madison affords a singular, participatory expertise formed by custom, neighborhood, and a shared appreciation for the unconventional. Consciousness of those incessantly requested questions can help in making ready for and fascinating totally within the occasion.
Issues for the historic context of the movie’s presence in Madison warrant additional exploration.
Navigating the Spectacle
The hallowed halls of Madison’s theaters maintain inside them the echoes of numerous “Time Warps” and spirited call-backs. Coming into this house for the primary time requires greater than only a ticket; it calls for a sure preparedness, a willingness to give up to the spectacle, and an understanding of the unstated code that governs the proceedings.
Tip 1: Embrace the Absurdity: The essence of “The Rocky Horror Image Present” resides in its unbridled embrace of the weird. Abandon inhibitions and permit oneself to be swept away by the movie’s inherent camp and joyous transgression. Making an attempt to investigate it by way of a standard lens is futile. It is best to dive in headfirst.
Tip 2: Study the Name-Backs: The decision-backs should not random outbursts; they’re an integral a part of the expertise, a coded language that binds the viewers collectively. Previous to attending, familiarize oneself with the widespread phrases and responses. The web is replete with sources. Figuring out the script enhances participation and prevents confusion.
Tip 3: Select a Costume Properly: Whereas elaborate costumes are admired, consolation and practicality must be paramount. One will probably be standing, dancing, and doubtlessly dodging rogue projectiles. Choose apparel that permits for freedom of motion and might face up to a certain quantity of mess. Moreover, take into account the climate; Madison’s local weather could be unpredictable.
Tip 4: Handle Expectations Concerning Prop Utilization: Prop kits are available, however moderation is essential. Overzealous deployment of rice, water, or shaving cream can detract from the expertise and irritate fellow attendees. Train restraint and cling to any pointers supplied by the venue or shadow solid.
Tip 5: Respect the House and the Performers: Whereas viewers participation is inspired, disruption and disrespect should not. Keep away from extreme noise throughout dialogue and chorus from heckling the shadow solid. Keep in mind that these people are volunteers dedicating their time and power to enhancing the occasion. Help their efforts.
Tip 6: Discover your tribe. “Rocky Horror” is nothing with out the followers. Discover like-minded individuals to rejoice with. There are a ton of individuals in madison that get pleasure from this movie as a lot as you do.
Navigating the world of “rocky horror image present madison wi” requires a mix of enthusiasm, preparation, and respect. By embracing the absurdity, studying the call-backs, selecting a dressing up correctly, managing prop utilization, and respecting the house and performers, one can guarantee an fulfilling and memorable expertise.
Having explored the information for participation, a closing consideration lies in understanding the way forward for this Madison custom.
Conclusion
The journey by way of Madison’s “Rocky Horror Image Present” screenings reveals a story way more advanced than a mere cult movie following. It’s a story of neighborhood, creative expression, and the enduring energy of shared expertise. From the hallowed halls of the Barrymore to the extra intimate areas downtown, the movie has woven itself into the material of Madison’s cultural id, leaving an indelible mark on generations of moviegoers, performers, and fans. Every call-back, every costume, every meticulously executed “Time Warp” step contributes to a collective reminiscence, a residing archive of a convention that continues to evolve whereas remaining firmly rooted in its origins.
Because the curtain falls, it’s value pondering the way forward for this Madison establishment. The challenges of sustaining relevance in an ever-changing leisure panorama are actual, requiring a fragile steadiness between honoring the previous and embracing innovation. The continued story of “rocky horror image present madison wi” will rely on the dedication of the neighborhood, the creativity of the shadow casts, and the willingness of venues to supply an area for this distinctive type of expression. The lights dim, the music fades, however the echoes of laughter, acceptance, and joyful rebel will proceed to resonate inside the coronary heart of Madison, a testomony to the enduring energy of a movie that dared to be totally different and a neighborhood that embraced it with open arms. The present, in spite of everything, should go on.
