As jukebox musicals go, I'm not really a fan of them. I much prefer a musical to have a score that is completely original to the show itself rather than having well-known songs threaded through a usually weak storyline. However, Rock of Ages is just a bit of enjoyable fun and, to be honest, I would rather watch it on stage over the movie any day. Rock of Ages does certainly not take itself seriously and throughout the show the narrator, Lonny, is constantly breaking the 'fourth wall' and interacting directly with the audience. It's a good thing this isn't a serious show otherwise I would be criticising the predictability of the ending and the stereotypes that are flung here, there and everywhere. Jukebox musicals rely on the audience liking the songs in it. You wouldn't get a person who didn't like Abba's music going to see Mamma Mia, and I think that might be where Rock of Ages downfall is. I admit I enjoyed it, but I love the music and I feel like that's why I found it entertaining. I couldn't say the same for Chris O'Arienzo's book, which I found to be bare and desperately in need of something more. I felt like it was a shame the book wasn't that great to compliment the performers' acting skills because they were all clearly capable of something much more challenging, but they all worked with the wafer-thin plot lines with great prowess. Stephen Rolley, the alternate for Drew, was brilliant in the role and has fantastic rock vocals, leading me to wonder why he was only the alternate and not the lead. Ben Richards made a surprisingly outstanding Stacee Jaxx, but my favourite performer of the night was Stephen Rahman-Hughes (Lonny) who improved during a scene which sent the audience into hysterics. His comedic timing is perfect. The main plot revolved around the struggling love story between wannabe stars Sherrie and Drew, who's relationship is being threatened to be torn apart by the sexy god-like rockstar, Stacee Jaxx. However, I was much more interested in the sub-plot going on in the background which focused on protests, led by Regina, against two German city-planners who wanted to demolish the Sunset Strip. The relationship between Regina and Franz was the highlight of the show for me (and their hilarious dance moves during the number 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot'). Rock of Ages proved to be a huge hit on Broadway with five Tony nominations, favourable reviews from the critics and the audience, and is still running now. The same can not be said for the show in London's West End, which was subject to appalling reviews and eventually closed last year. Flaws aside, the show is enjoyable, light entertainment and is worth seeing, but it's nothing unique or special. __________________________________________________________ Rating: ★★★ Comment: I may be bias because I've never been a huge fan of jukebox musicals, but it's far from the best show I've ever seen. I cannot deny that it's fun and energetic, but I came out the theatre singing all of the 80's rock songs rather than remembering the actual plot. Probably my favourite jukebox musical though, if I'm honest. | Have you seen Rock of Ages? Do you agree or disagree with any of the points I have made? If so, I'd love to here from you so send me a message and let me know which production you saw! |
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Hello there, friend!Welcome to my blog. I tend ramble on a bit about theatre, books and Disney. Archives
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