Rock Of Ages Still Drawing The Crowds

Our two theatre correspondents Emilie Moon and Claire Haddelton had a rollicking good time at Rock of Ages

The clue is in the title! This show is packed from start to finish with popular (and very loud!) rock and roll anthems from the 80’s.

The story tells of an aspiring young rocker called Drew who meets a pretty wannabe actress called Sherree. They meet in a bar on LA’s Sunset strip which is owned by aged rocker Dennis Dopree. The show’s extremely camp narrator Lonny already works there and thus the story begins. The storyline is somewhat predictable, some may say a little ‘thin’ but none of that seems to bother the audience one bit. The show includes many risqué innuendos and tongue-in-cheek humour not giving the audience much time to catch their breath! Laughter resounded around the theatre all evening. The cast seemed to be loving every moment of this opening night, even ably ad-libbing a couple of times when the ‘tech’ went a little awry.

Joe Gash (who plays Lonny) holds the show together well with his perfectly timed comedy and hysterical interaction with the audience (hint: don’t sit on the front row if you are a lady!) His versatile voice and flamboyant costumes entertained throughout the show.

There were many notable performances to rave about. Natalie Winsor (Justice) took the stage by storm with her first number, bringing huge cheers from the audience. A real diva…donning very special purple boots too! Kevin Kennedy (Dennis Dupree), formally known as Curly from Corrie, played his part with humour and revealed a real talent for music, singing and acrobatics.

Cameron Sharp, in his super tight white jeans, played the baddie perfectly, a repulsive, egocentric loser in the end! But what a fantastic voice. David Breeds as Franz (one half the German double act threatening to close the whole of Sunset Strip) stole the show especially in the second half with his courageous and hilarious rendition of Hit Me With Your Best Shot dressed in a multi-coloured leotard. He is joined in this song by Vicki Manser (Regina) who also wears a multi coloured leotard (with added extras!) and causes great hilarity. Her voice is truly stunning and her vocals are seemingly effortless all night. How we wish we could mention everyone individually…...

At the back of the stage sat the unsung heroes- the musicians- SO much talent on show in this department.

The set was impressive, the choreography was crisp and the whole night was just brilliant. The most enjoyable parts were probably when the whole cast belted out rousing choruses, bringing the audience to its feet.

As we left the theatre, ears ringing and tapping our feet, we realised why this show has been a smash hit with audiences





https://www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk/tour/