Rock of Ages production images
Written by Chris D’Arienzo, Rock of Ages is a jukebox musical comedy based on the classic rock anthems of the 1980s. Nominated for 5 Tony awards Rock of Ages opened on Broadway in 2009 closing in 2015.
Set in 1987 on Sunset Strip in Hollywood, the story tells of a small-town girl Sherrie who meets and falls in love with city boy Drew whilst they both pursue fame and fortune in the world of rock and roll.
Tongue in cheek dance routines created by director and choreographer Nick Winston are delivered with energy and precision by the talented cast. Combined together with the big hairstyles and rock fashions of the era, the cheesy nostalgic atmosphere of this piece is created.
Danielle Hope (Sherrie) and Luke Walsh (Drew) have excellent onstage chemistry and both delivered outstanding vocals. I particularly enjoyed their duet Waiting for a girl like you.
Zoe Birkett gave an outstanding performance as Venus strip club manager Justice. Her duet with Hope, Harden my heart, was my favourite number of the evening.
Lucas Rush as the narrator Lonny is the perfect showman, breaking the fourth wall as he worked the audience with charm and humour.
Andrew Carthy’s portrayal of exuberant geeky German Franz, caused the audience to dissolve in fits of laughter. Vas Constanti gave a wonderful comedic performance as Franz’s father Hertz, together they were a dynamic duo.
Rock of Ages is a parody of all things rock; a show that mocks itself and does not take itself seriously. What it lacks in storyline and dialogue it makes up with well-known rock anthems of a generation, all delivered by the onstage band with power and professionalism.
This production is full of good fun and fantastic performances. Packed to the brim with power ballads and humour, Rock of Ages had the Birmingham audience rocking their way to the midnight train by the end of the show.
We just can’t fight this feeling any more, Rock of Ages is our guilty pleasure musical!
Rock of Ages runs at the Alex theatre Birmingham from the 13th November to 17th November when it continues its national tour.
MT
Theatretastic 4/5:
We say: “We just can’t fight this feeling any more, Rock of Ages is our guilty pleasure musical!”
Theatretastic 