INTERVIEW: Lucas Rush talks about rocking out in ROCK OF AGES

For those who haven’t seen Rock of Ages, what is the show about and what attracted you to the part you are playing?
Rock of Ages about a small town girl and a city boy, who both took midnight trains goin anywhere. It’s also about a bar/gig venue in LA called The Bourbon Room. The Bourbon Room is owned by Dennis and run by sound Guy/God, Lonny (he also Narrates the show) The bar is under threat from a German redevelopment company.

When I first saw the show I immediately knew I wanted to play Lonny. He’s basically like the Rock version of The Emcee from Cabaret crossed with Ace Ventura pet detective with a touch of Snarf from Thundercats thrown in. SUCH a fun role to play.

The show is full of 80’s hit anthems. What is your favorite song in the show?
Probably Don’t Stop Believing. Love we’re not gonna take it too coz it sounds like a Green Day song. OH!… and Shadows of the Night. Yup…. there’s more but I’ll just end up listing all the songs.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the theatre industry and why?
Mark Rylance. He can be playing the most ridiculous or outrageous character….. Yet he always leads from the page of truth. He’s incredible. Aside from him I would say honestly…. people I’ve worked with over the years. I’m constantly learning from people. The first 3 that spring to my mind as being inspirational are….Victoria Hamilton-Barrit, Tim Minchin & Siobhan McCarthy.

What West End show would you like to see make a comeback and why?
I want a dark & immersive production of Cabaret to come back to The West End & I want to play Emcee.

If you could only ever listen to one more musical theatre song, what would you choose?
La Vie Bohem from Rent

Apart from acting, what is your biggest passion?
Watching Netflix in bed with my doggies lying all over my face.

We are living in a time where films are often being turned into stage plays and musicals. If you had to choose one, what film would you like to see adapted to the stage?
I’m gonna choose 3! (Sorry about it) Labrynth, Empire Records & Mrs Doubtfire! I’ve always said those 3 & I THINK THEY ARE ALL HAPPENING! I have to get in for Mrs Doubtfire if it kills me.

Why do you think people should come and see the UK Tour of Rock of Ages?
If you are looking for a night of Rock and Roll debauchery… then look nay further. It is offensive, rude, crude and almost nude. It is NOT pretending to be anything else & it won’t apologise for it. Don’t come and see it if you are looking for complex characters and a challenging plot…… as your face may implode.

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