Garrett Gafford
Garrett Gafford (also known as D. Garrett Gafford) was an American Rocky Horror Legend. Garrett was the primary Frank N. Furter at the Tiffany Theater in West Hollywood, CA. Garrett was an iconic and influential contributor to Rocky Horror in Southern California during the late 1970s-early '80s. Garrett began performing in early 1978, and remained the center of The Tiffany Troupe until June 19, 1981. What made Garrett unique was that Garrett was a woman living as a man -- a genuine transexual saving up for the operation. Feverishly devoted to accuracy, Garrett created several meticulously screen accurate costumes in the era before home video. To Garrett, the role was a big responsibility, and it was as more a lifestyle than a hobby. As a result, Garrett became well known state-wide, and was often asked to appear at other theaters, and won several costume contests along the way. Garrett also developed a friendly relationship with Tim Curry in the late '70s.
Garrett passed away in May of 2013 after suffering two strokes (that revealed brain cancer.) Garrett's ashes were sprinkled at sea four months later, while the song "I'm Going Home" from The Rocky Horror Picture Show Original Soundtrack Album was played. As a lasting tribute to his/her importance to the cult, Garrett's floor show costume for a time on display at the Valley Relics Museum in Van Nuys, CA, where it stood on a dressed mannequin under the rescued and preserved Tiffany Theater Marquee for the first several years, while the museum was in its first location in Chatsworth. It is currently not on display, but is being cared for and preserved for future special events.
Two photos originally from of Garrett's collection are featured on The Rocky Horror Picture Show - 45th Anniversary Limited Edition Vinyl Picture Disc.
Contents
Cast Affiliations
Theaters Attended
- Tiffany Theater, West Hollywood CA (1977-1983)
- Rialto Theatre, Pasadena, CA (1979 Halloween Costume Contest Winner)
- Wilshire Theater, Fullerton, CA (1979)
- Aquarius Theatre - The Rocky Horror Show 1980 - 81 North American Tour (1981)
Notable Concerts/Events Attended
1979: Tim Curry at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1979: Tim Curry at the Roxy Theater
