I remember seeing Rock of Ages in the West End in 2011 and absolutely adoring it. Granted, it was 8 years ago so my memory may be a little fuzzy but the general picture is exceptionally positive so I had high hopes for this new touring production from SellADoor Worldwide and Director/Choreographer Nick Winston. Featuring classic rock anthems such as “Feel The Noize”, “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, “Here I Go Again” and “Don’t Stop Believing” the programme promises an evening of Rock and Roll magic.
A classic tale of boy meet girl…. until boy friendzones girl, girl fondles rock star, rock star gets girl fired, girl becomes a stripper, boy joins a boyband, girl runs away, boy finds girl, kiss kiss happy ever after they shall be forever. Throw in some angry protesters, whisky drinking club owners, “Gay or European” German property developers and … ta-da, it’s Rock of Ages!
Jodie Steele, fresh from her run in Heathers at Theatre Royal, Haymarket, smashes it out of the park as Sherrie – the wide-eyed, innocent farmgirl with big Rock & Roll dreams. Her vocals are faultless and oh-so-powerful. Her confidence and physicality shine through the theatre (and in a role which requires shorts THAT short and pole-dancing in lingerie, that’s pretty imperative!) The good news is, Steele looks as good as she sounds and I can’t fault her characterisation at all; she brought the comedy of the role to the fore without sacrificing a moment of realism in this otherwise pretty bat-sh*t crazy show!
