Rating [rating=5]
Reviewed by Jamie chapman Dixon
Where: Garrick Theatre
Price: £25 – £65
How long: 2.5 hours (15 minute interval)
Rock of ages returns to the stage once more after its sell out run at The Shaftesbury Theatre. We hear the very familiar story of a young, beautiful girl (Sherrie, played by Natalie Andreou) moving to the big city and making her “American Dream” come true. As the tale unfolds we quickly realise that this isn’t the same old story of fame and glory we have all become, quite frankly, tired of.
Rock Of Ages brings heart to the table and tells a tale of strength, unity and fighting for what you believe in. A romance is formed quickly and quite comically between Sherrie and Drew (Ross Hunter) who both seemingly seek their own individual “American Dream”.
The scene is set perfectly with a brilliantly crafted set not missing any small detail, from fully working traffic lights, right down to the bra hanging off a sign 25ft above you.
The show opens with the strength and fire of a rock concert, the first words being ‘Hello London’ with lights so blinding that you think when they dim, Mick Jagger will be standing on stage pouting in your direction. We instantly see that the show is not taking itself to seriously with audience participation and flourishes of improvisation.
As the characters slowly get introduced, there is one performer who almost instantly stands out to steal the show. This is none other than Simon Lipkin as Lonny. Simons portrayal of the Bourbon Rooms handy man was second to none and could not be faulted. Saying this, there has to be a mention to Sandy Moffat as Franz who put in a superb performance as the very effeminate German chocolate lover.
Rock of ages has everything that today’s audience should want to get out of a West End musical: engrossing, heartwarming and an experience not to be missed. Proving that in life, the dream you believe your heart wants the most, is quickly replaced by one that will fill your heart with warmth and joy which will last a life time.
I would recommend Rock Of Ages to all ages, to go and enjoy the magic and energy this production brings to the theatre, where you can have all the fun and experience of a rock concert without the mess and smell.
Click here to buy tickets to Rock Of Ages at the Garrick Theatre.