Rock Of Ages (UK Tour)
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 1st July 2014
Last year I described Rock Of Ages the "loudest, sexiest and hottest musical in London". Twelve months later, Rock Of Ages is the loudest, sexiest and hottest musical currently touring the UK!
A show has never grown on me as much as Rock Of Ages. The first time I saw it in the West End I wasn't overly keen, but by the time its two year run concluded I couldn't get enough of it! Making fun out of musical theatre throughout, Rock Of Ages can be appreciated by both dedicated theatregoers and those who don't usually like musicals. As long as you're open minded, up for a laugh and love 80s rock songs you will have the time of your life!
Set in 1987(ish), Rock Of Ages follows Sherrie who moves to Los Angeles with big dreams. She ends up meeting an aspiring rock star Drew and the pair fall in love. However, before they know it their careers are heading in very different directions. Thankfully Rock Of Ages does not take itself seriously. The story is simply an excuse for the cast to sing epic songs whilst providing huge laughs throughout. It’s glorious, exhilarating escapism.
As well as looking almost exactly the same as it did in the West End (the set is very simple), the standard of the cast is equally as high. The company carry the show and keep the energy alive, if each scene didn't feel fresh and the cast didn't look like they were having the time of their lives the show wouldn't work.
Rock Of Ages knows how to stage a good ensemble number, all of which are electrifying. To hear so many world class singers belting their hearts out together is quite something!
Rock Of Ages knows how to stage a good ensemble number, all of which are electrifying. To hear so many world class singers belting their hearts out together is quite something!
Noel Sullivan and Cordella Farnworth are sensational as Drew and Sherrie. Both have strong voices and lead the cast with charm. Ben Richards is unrecognisable as Stacee Jaxx, completely letting go and excelling in the role throughout. Impressive vocals also come from Rachel McFarlane as Justice Charlier.
The star of the show is Stephen Rahman-Hughes as Lonny. Rahman-Hughes has completely made the role his own. He won the audience over early on and has fantastic chemistry opposite Daniel Fletcher as Dennis Dupree. The pair’s rendition of 'I Can't Fight This Feeling Any More' provided one of the evening's many highlights.
It isn't until the second half that Cameron Sharp and Jessie May step into the spotlight as Franz and Regina. However, it's certainly worth the wait as when they do (during 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot') they bring the house down! Sharp storms the stage with attitude and perfect comic timing. I don't want to give away the surprise gag, but despite having seen the show a few times before I was in absolute hysterics.
I think it takes time for Rock Of Ages to settle, but as soon as it does and you become tuned into its ridiculous yet light hearted style the show becomes fantastic fun. Rock Of Ages certainly provided the most wild Tuesday night I have had for a very long time!
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
Rock Of Ages runs at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre until Saturday 5th July 2014. The production tours the UK until Saturday 22nd November 2014.
Please visit www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk for further information, full tour dates and tickets.
Please visit www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk for further information, full tour dates and tickets.
Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan
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