ROCK OF AGES SCHOOL EDITION

PADOS Youth Theatre Group

 

Director Tim Platt

Musical Director Steven Sandiford

Choreographer Elisa Holmes

 

This jukebox musical is of music from the glam rock bands of the 1980’s which lampoons musical theatre with its storyline. It has the well-used plot of boy meets girl, they fall in and out of love and are eventually reunited. There is also a subplot of the German developers who want to redevelop an area which includes the seedy club the Bourbon Room run by Dennis Dupree. Dennis has secured the farewell performance of the band Arsenal.

 

A scaffold style composite set, with the band elevated, and additional pieces to help location, satisfied the production needs. All were dressed as needed giving a good interpretation of the era. Lighting made a strong statement in keeping with the style of music. Likewise, the sound, without being overpowering, delivered the rock and roll sound.

 

The creative team were faced with quite a challenge. Not unlike in operetta every scene included a song and choreography / movement. The director made sure the comedy was delivered, as the music stood on its own. All the famous rock classics were given the right treatment and the band rocked. Choreography emulated the 1980s and was effectively delivered.

 

The show expects a lot from the ensemble, and experience is needed to deliver what is required. For the mixed abilities, the work was challenging for the youth group although they gave their all.

 

Lonny Barnett, the show’s narrator, takes down the fourth wall to address the audience. Kemmie Clark was so in character he found a different voice for narrating then stepped back into character for the story telling. His ease and comfort on stage were supported by some cool saxophone playing.

 

As club owner, Dennis Dupree – Dale Porter and lead singer of the Arsenal Stacee Jaxx – Rory Branagan brought rock and roll to the piece. The cameo role of ‘Mother’, owner of the lap dancing strip club Venus-A-Go-Go, was well delivered by Kathryn Reynolds.

 

German developers Hilda Klinemann (Madeline Jones) and her son Franz (George Platt) created mayhem with their proposed closure of the rock venue. George Platt created a very rounded comedy character whose dream is to open a confectionery shop. His heart is given to Anita, the far left activist, played believably by Ellen Bate.

 

The love interest comes from would-be actress Sherrie and busboy Drew. Jess Porter displayed all the confused elements of Sherrie, finding her true love for Drew. All this was wrapped up in Jess’s strong song delivery. Sam Bate was so sincere, as the naïve Drew who is looking for stardom. His characterisation was well honed and his musical numbers he made his own.

 

This show is not a “We Will Rock You”. It stands on the audience’s love of the music but this does not deter from the enjoyment of the performances.