The Brooks Atkinson Hosts A Party Called ROCK OF AGES

This week, I had the pleasure of seeing Rock of Ages, which was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. I was especially interested in seeing this show, considering many think that 9 to 5 should be in their spot. For my money, I would pick Rock of Ages any day.

Upon walking into the Brooks Atkinson Theater, there was a different atmosphere than any other musical I’ve ever attended. There are waiters serving drinks, the theater is dressed as a concert venue, and the audience had such a fun and relaxed buzz. At the performance I attended, there were audience members who, at the start of a song they recognized and loved, would get up and start dancing. In most other pieces, you would be beaten back to your seat. At Rock of Ages, you are admired for being that bold!

Going in, I was skeptical that a musical using a pre-existing compilation of music from various sources could enhance any story. The way that book writer Chris D’Arienzo crafts his story, 80s music is the only suitable language for his characters. The musical takes place in the 1980s where a venue on the strip of LA is going to be shut down so that developers can remodel the community. Of course, at the same time, there is the love interest of a rock star and actress who are trying to make it big and fall in and out of love throughout the story.

Now as conventional as the story sounds, D’Arienzo never shies away from the simplicity. His characters understand that they are a part of a musical and with his narrator (Lonny) and the heightened campiness of the 80s music, he could do just about anything and get away with it. A lot of times, he doesn’t even use full songs; choosing to just use parts where the lyrics are helping the action of the moment. In other musicals, this just wouldn’t work. Given the context of this musical, it seems perfect.

The performances all around are very strong. Although he was very good in his role, I find it hard to believe that there wasn’t another performance worthy of the Best Leading Actor in a musical. As always, Amy Spanger gives a highly energetic and well crafted performance as Sherrie. It’s rare to find someone that is a true triple threat, but Spanger shines vocally, with her movement, and with the full exploration of her character. Other notable performances belong to Mitchell Jarvis as the narrator Lonny, who guides us through the story and plays a fun role within it and Paul Schoeffler, who plays the man who wants to demolish the Bourbon Room.

All is all, I recommend Rock of Ages for anyone who wants to have a less formal evening at a musical. Bring your earplugs (it’s really loud, but worth it) and a sense of humor and Rock of Ages will give you a great evening’s entertainment!