REVIEW
Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society present
ROCK OF AGES
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea
Wed 21st May 2025 - Sat 24th May 2025
Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society present
ROCK OF AGES
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea
Wed 21st May 2025 - Sat 24th May 2025
I’m not sure if Rock of Ages comes with an age, health or shock factor warning: there’s certainly a lot of sexual innuendo as well as some pretty graphic imagery that may not leave a lot to the imagination and perhaps get some temperatures rising. However, set in a time where sex and drugs and rock n roll were top of the menu in this West Hollywood ‘all you can eat' sleazy neighbourhood buffet, the chances of a boy meets girl romance would possibly seem a far cry from reality; yet despite this, Rock of Ages seems to fit the bill perfectly in this eighties rock fuelled love story.
Set in 1980s, Los Angeles, Sherrie, the small town girl and innocent young wannabe actress arrives in town and lands herself a waitressing job at The Bourbon Room on Sunset Strip. She meets aspiring rocker Drew and the couple fall for each other. However, when heart-throb lead singer of rock band Arsenal, Stacee Jaxx, turns up on the scene for the bands last gig at The Bourbon Room, Sherrie foolishly falls for his cheesy stoner chat and rock god reputation and all kinds of heartbreak and misunderstandings ensue - along with the opportunity to showcase rock ballads like Waiting for a Girl Like You, I Want To Know What Love Is, Harden My Heart, Can’t Fight This Feeling and Every Rose Has Its Thorn, in this energy fuelled, high wired, jukebox musical.
The set is mostly contained with the majority of scenes taking place in The Bourbon Room, with the live band ever present at the back and giving all the rock vibes as they play along to the score. Of course the music is the clincher here and if you’re a fan of eighties rock music you certainly won’t be disappointed. Kicking off with Just Like Paradise and with songs like We Built This City, We’re Not Gonna Take It and ending the night with Don’t Stop Believing, MD, Liam Holmes, has clearly worked his magic with the whole cast. Holmes having been MD for the professional UK Tour of Rock of Ages has obviously been a huge bonus for LODS and the guys in the band, including Alex Ward on guitar who was also in the tour band, create an amazing sound and backing for the cast, as you would expect. There were a few times where the cast vocals could have possible been turned up a notch so as not to compete with the band and provide more clarity, but this was I expect more of an opening night niggle and something that will quickly be streamlined.
Director and choreographer, Claire Carr, (assisted by Peter Brown) has put together the perfect casting for this show with an ensemble who not only belt out some great harmonies and vocals but can also dance fantastically and, for a fair few numbers, evocatively well. The featured dancers in the cast go all out and are really a feast for the eyes when performing some of the more raunchier routines in this show. There’s a lot of hair-tossing and writhing going on here and the girls totally own it. This is one sexy show. A nod here, of course, to the wardrobe, costume and props department folks, who behind the scenes have provided some fantastically authentic outfits for the production, not to mention the plethora of sexy undies that adorn the stage at various points.
The show is lead by Lonny, who narrates the storyline as we go along and James Cohen takes on this role like a seasoned pro, using every inch of his comedy bones to provide a totally hilarious characterisation of the cohort and sidekick of Dennis Dupree (Lloyd Cast), the hardcore yet funny and loveable owner of The Bourbon Room, where he works. The two make a perfect pairing, especially when they're singing together. I Can't Fight This Feeling is a showstopper.
Matt Wallace and Eleanor Warner-Larthe take on the starring roles of Drew and Sherrie, who both provide some kick-ass vocals and some great chemistry which is endearing. Helen Sharpe’s portrayal of *ah-hem* gentleman’s club owner, Mama, is sassy but caring and again she gets the opportunity to show off some powerful vocals.
James Boatwright almost steals the show with his steamy portrayal of the cocksure rock star, Stacee Jaxx as he oozes his way through the show with a self assured, yet humorous characterisation, although I also loved Alex Abineri’s take on Franz, the son who is constantly bullied by his overbearing father. No spoilers, but it’s worth the wait to see Franz’s big moment in one of the funniest and most empowering parts of the show.
Regina Koontz is the queen of protesters with her aim of stopping property developer, Hertz Klinemann (Simon Sharpe) and his son Franz - another great pairing - from bulldozing the Strip where The Bourbon Room is located to build a Footlocker store. Played with an abundance of energy as she leaps into action every time she’s on stage, Nadezhda Beaumont-Lockley is the perfect fit for Regina’s hippy, wholesome, quirky ways and I love that she gets to perform with her dad, Richard Beaumont, in his impressive debut performance with LODS in the role of the Mayor.
Every character, even the smaller roles; both Michelle Taylor’s Estelle and Tom Nolan’s Producer bring some nicely nuanced comedy to their characters, no matter how brief, and there are lots of laugh out loud moments to keep the feel good vibes going throughout. James Cohen as Lonny, however, is the master in this production and he will constantly have you in stitches as he breaks the fourth wall to address the audience throughout the evening. Watch out if you're in the front row!
There’s a lot going on in this production and the action never gets boring in this 2 hour 35 minute show. In fact, it’s more of a case of feeling like you’re getting your money’s worth with the feel good vibes constantly exuding from the stage. The cast look like they’re having a blast and the audience's reaction is reciprocated. With the 'will they, won't they get together for Drew and Sherrie and the threat of The Bourbon Room being no more, the show builds up to a wonderful climax, which leads me back to whether there should be a warning for this show.
I actually think it should definitely have one that goes along the lines of, ‘please be aware that this show is frickin’ awesome!’
Girls grab your boys and get down to the Palace Theatre, Westcliff this week for a night to remember!
Review: Kim Tobin
Set in 1980s, Los Angeles, Sherrie, the small town girl and innocent young wannabe actress arrives in town and lands herself a waitressing job at The Bourbon Room on Sunset Strip. She meets aspiring rocker Drew and the couple fall for each other. However, when heart-throb lead singer of rock band Arsenal, Stacee Jaxx, turns up on the scene for the bands last gig at The Bourbon Room, Sherrie foolishly falls for his cheesy stoner chat and rock god reputation and all kinds of heartbreak and misunderstandings ensue - along with the opportunity to showcase rock ballads like Waiting for a Girl Like You, I Want To Know What Love Is, Harden My Heart, Can’t Fight This Feeling and Every Rose Has Its Thorn, in this energy fuelled, high wired, jukebox musical.
The set is mostly contained with the majority of scenes taking place in The Bourbon Room, with the live band ever present at the back and giving all the rock vibes as they play along to the score. Of course the music is the clincher here and if you’re a fan of eighties rock music you certainly won’t be disappointed. Kicking off with Just Like Paradise and with songs like We Built This City, We’re Not Gonna Take It and ending the night with Don’t Stop Believing, MD, Liam Holmes, has clearly worked his magic with the whole cast. Holmes having been MD for the professional UK Tour of Rock of Ages has obviously been a huge bonus for LODS and the guys in the band, including Alex Ward on guitar who was also in the tour band, create an amazing sound and backing for the cast, as you would expect. There were a few times where the cast vocals could have possible been turned up a notch so as not to compete with the band and provide more clarity, but this was I expect more of an opening night niggle and something that will quickly be streamlined.
Director and choreographer, Claire Carr, (assisted by Peter Brown) has put together the perfect casting for this show with an ensemble who not only belt out some great harmonies and vocals but can also dance fantastically and, for a fair few numbers, evocatively well. The featured dancers in the cast go all out and are really a feast for the eyes when performing some of the more raunchier routines in this show. There’s a lot of hair-tossing and writhing going on here and the girls totally own it. This is one sexy show. A nod here, of course, to the wardrobe, costume and props department folks, who behind the scenes have provided some fantastically authentic outfits for the production, not to mention the plethora of sexy undies that adorn the stage at various points.
The show is lead by Lonny, who narrates the storyline as we go along and James Cohen takes on this role like a seasoned pro, using every inch of his comedy bones to provide a totally hilarious characterisation of the cohort and sidekick of Dennis Dupree (Lloyd Cast), the hardcore yet funny and loveable owner of The Bourbon Room, where he works. The two make a perfect pairing, especially when they're singing together. I Can't Fight This Feeling is a showstopper.
Matt Wallace and Eleanor Warner-Larthe take on the starring roles of Drew and Sherrie, who both provide some kick-ass vocals and some great chemistry which is endearing. Helen Sharpe’s portrayal of *ah-hem* gentleman’s club owner, Mama, is sassy but caring and again she gets the opportunity to show off some powerful vocals.
James Boatwright almost steals the show with his steamy portrayal of the cocksure rock star, Stacee Jaxx as he oozes his way through the show with a self assured, yet humorous characterisation, although I also loved Alex Abineri’s take on Franz, the son who is constantly bullied by his overbearing father. No spoilers, but it’s worth the wait to see Franz’s big moment in one of the funniest and most empowering parts of the show.
Regina Koontz is the queen of protesters with her aim of stopping property developer, Hertz Klinemann (Simon Sharpe) and his son Franz - another great pairing - from bulldozing the Strip where The Bourbon Room is located to build a Footlocker store. Played with an abundance of energy as she leaps into action every time she’s on stage, Nadezhda Beaumont-Lockley is the perfect fit for Regina’s hippy, wholesome, quirky ways and I love that she gets to perform with her dad, Richard Beaumont, in his impressive debut performance with LODS in the role of the Mayor.
Every character, even the smaller roles; both Michelle Taylor’s Estelle and Tom Nolan’s Producer bring some nicely nuanced comedy to their characters, no matter how brief, and there are lots of laugh out loud moments to keep the feel good vibes going throughout. James Cohen as Lonny, however, is the master in this production and he will constantly have you in stitches as he breaks the fourth wall to address the audience throughout the evening. Watch out if you're in the front row!
There’s a lot going on in this production and the action never gets boring in this 2 hour 35 minute show. In fact, it’s more of a case of feeling like you’re getting your money’s worth with the feel good vibes constantly exuding from the stage. The cast look like they’re having a blast and the audience's reaction is reciprocated. With the 'will they, won't they get together for Drew and Sherrie and the threat of The Bourbon Room being no more, the show builds up to a wonderful climax, which leads me back to whether there should be a warning for this show.
I actually think it should definitely have one that goes along the lines of, ‘please be aware that this show is frickin’ awesome!’
Girls grab your boys and get down to the Palace Theatre, Westcliff this week for a night to remember!
Review: Kim Tobin
Step into the wild world of 1980s Los Angeles in this high-energy jukebox musical.
Rock of Ages follows Drew, a small-town boy with rock star dreams, and Sherrie, an aspiring actress, as they chase their Hollywood aspirations. Set against the backdrop of the infamous Sunset Strip, their love story unfolds amidst the impending demolition of a beloved rock venue.
As Drew and Sherrie navigate romance, heartbreak, and the cutthroat entertainment industry, they're surrounded by larger-than-life characters and the electrifying sounds of classic rock. From power ballads to head-banging anthems, the show features hit songs by some of the most iconic bands, there really is something for everyone - Waiting for a Girl Like You, Wanted, Dead or Alive, I Wanna Know What Love Is, Harden My Heart and We Built This City are all in there.
Rock of Ages is a nostalgic celebration of big dreams, big hair, and the power of rock 'n' roll. With its tongue-in-cheek humour and infectious energy, this musical promises a night of pure entertainment that will have you singing along and reaching for the leather jacket, hairspray and guitar.
For tickets click here
Rock of Ages follows Drew, a small-town boy with rock star dreams, and Sherrie, an aspiring actress, as they chase their Hollywood aspirations. Set against the backdrop of the infamous Sunset Strip, their love story unfolds amidst the impending demolition of a beloved rock venue.
As Drew and Sherrie navigate romance, heartbreak, and the cutthroat entertainment industry, they're surrounded by larger-than-life characters and the electrifying sounds of classic rock. From power ballads to head-banging anthems, the show features hit songs by some of the most iconic bands, there really is something for everyone - Waiting for a Girl Like You, Wanted, Dead or Alive, I Wanna Know What Love Is, Harden My Heart and We Built This City are all in there.
Rock of Ages is a nostalgic celebration of big dreams, big hair, and the power of rock 'n' roll. With its tongue-in-cheek humour and infectious energy, this musical promises a night of pure entertainment that will have you singing along and reaching for the leather jacket, hairspray and guitar.
For tickets click here
The cast in rehearsal led by director, Claire Carr
CURTAIN CALL
Meet the cast: Nadia Beaumont, Lloyd Cast, Matt Wallace and James Cohen who tell us about their roles in Rock of Ages and lots more!
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Nadezhda (Nadia) Beaumont, 32, from Westcliff-on-sea, is playing the role of Regina Koontz
How long have you been a member of LODS? I joined LODS for their production on The Little Mermaid in 2023 Why did you join? Having been a professional performer, I moved away from the industry when I wanted to settle down and have a family. After my daughter was born, I wanted to get back into performing but didn’t want to be in the industry. We moved from North London to the area and by chance I saw a poster for Shrek when viewing our house. I met my husband working as an actress at Shreks’ Adventure London so it stuck in my mind. The rest is history! What was the last play/musical you saw? I am off to see Evita at the London Palladium soon which I am incredibly excited about as I love the music! If you could play any role, what would it be? I’m a classic character performer so I love anything I can really sink my teeth into. My top characters would be Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd (Musical), Paulina in Death and the maiden (Play) or Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing (Classic). |
Nadia in rehearsal
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When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found… Running my brow business or creating socials for a number of accounts in my full time job as a Social Media Executive. Instead of physically telling the stories of people, I now show them online.
Tell us about the show in your own words This show is a wild ride through the 80’s rock scene. Every single song is a banger and you’d be hard pressed not to want to get up and dance through the whole thing.
What is your favourite part of the show and why? My favorite part of the show is ‘hit me with your best shot’, Alex who plays opposite me as Franz is just so funny and this scene really makes me giggle in rehearsals.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. Strong. Powerful. Hippie.
How do you learn your lines? I learn by doing. I will go through my scenes and think of the story I am telling. I will then ask anyone around to test me and read in and go over it and over it.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? Such a hard question. I’m a big fan of Michael B. Jordan, Steve Carell and Alan Cumming.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I once had someone put their finger in my mouth whilst I was “asleep” playing sleeping beauty as they thought I was a statue... yeah that wasn’t very fun haha. Although he seemed very shocked when I subsequently opened my eyes. Not sure who was more surprised.
What’s your favorite dressing room item? My traditional sugar free Red Bull. I have been having a red bull before heading to the stage since I was about 16.
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? I have performed in a number of Greek tragedies. I once was a Maenad in a production of the Bacchus, which consisted of loads of different fabrics pulled together. When the Bacchus went into frenzy UV lights came on and we were painted with UV patterns. It was really cool. I also got to dress up as a princess or witch every day for a year at Shrek's adventure. I will say it takes a long time to get green off!
Why do you think people should see the show? It is really such a feel good show. The vocals are on point, the characters are great but above all else, its REALLY funny. This show is such a wonderful example of escapism at its finest. So come and escape to the Bourbon room with us and have nothing but a good time!
Tell us about the show in your own words This show is a wild ride through the 80’s rock scene. Every single song is a banger and you’d be hard pressed not to want to get up and dance through the whole thing.
What is your favourite part of the show and why? My favorite part of the show is ‘hit me with your best shot’, Alex who plays opposite me as Franz is just so funny and this scene really makes me giggle in rehearsals.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. Strong. Powerful. Hippie.
How do you learn your lines? I learn by doing. I will go through my scenes and think of the story I am telling. I will then ask anyone around to test me and read in and go over it and over it.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? Such a hard question. I’m a big fan of Michael B. Jordan, Steve Carell and Alan Cumming.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I once had someone put their finger in my mouth whilst I was “asleep” playing sleeping beauty as they thought I was a statue... yeah that wasn’t very fun haha. Although he seemed very shocked when I subsequently opened my eyes. Not sure who was more surprised.
What’s your favorite dressing room item? My traditional sugar free Red Bull. I have been having a red bull before heading to the stage since I was about 16.
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? I have performed in a number of Greek tragedies. I once was a Maenad in a production of the Bacchus, which consisted of loads of different fabrics pulled together. When the Bacchus went into frenzy UV lights came on and we were painted with UV patterns. It was really cool. I also got to dress up as a princess or witch every day for a year at Shrek's adventure. I will say it takes a long time to get green off!
Why do you think people should see the show? It is really such a feel good show. The vocals are on point, the characters are great but above all else, its REALLY funny. This show is such a wonderful example of escapism at its finest. So come and escape to the Bourbon room with us and have nothing but a good time!
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Lloyd Cast, 54, from Westcliff who says he is genuinely over the moon to be playing Dennis Dupree, owner of the legendary Dupree’s Bourbon Room bar
How long have you been a member of LODS? This is my first time with LODS and I joined in 2024 Why did you join? I joined LODS specifically for Rock of Ages having spent many years with Coleshill On Stage in the midlands and then coming back home to Essex where I was in Snow White with the Wednesday Players. My younger brother and his step-mother were both in LODS before me. What was the last play/musical you saw? Romeo and Juliet at Southend High School for Boys. There is some amazing young talent being nurtured there. If you could play any role, what would it be? As I am just approaching middle age, I’d love to play Pharoah in Jesus Christ Superstar. Although I’d still love the opportunity to play Riff Raff. When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found…Walking my rescue Chihuahua, Big Tony. Tell us about the show in your own words. Rock of Ages is a tale of triumph over adversity, a motley crew of protesters bringing power to the people, and more than one love story. The songs come straight from my youth and are guaranteed to bring a massive dose of Feelgood to the audience. |
What is your favourite part of the show and why? My favourite part of the show is where two characters find love when they weren’t looking. A reminder that life is always full of hope and surprises.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. Goofy, Caring, Stoner.
How do you learn your lines? I’m a kinaesthetic learner, so time on the floor repeating scenes and dialogue has always been the only way I can dial it in. Repetition, repetition, repetition.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? I’m a little obsessed with Les Mis, and Samantha Barks makes me cry every time.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I once apologised to the MD on the way off stage for singing the same verse twice. His face was an absolute picture
What’s your favourite dressing room item? Air Con! Without a single doubt.
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? Although I hated it at the time, as the coat was so very heavy, Fagin’s costume was great fun. More pockets than I knew what to do with, and the kids robbed me blind! I lost 9lbs wearing it for a week.
Why do you think people should see the show? Rock of Ages is just a juggernaut of a musical. From the first notes to the last, it just does not stop! Songs that everyone will know. Big dance numbers. Scenes that will have you rooting for characters while laughing as their stories unfold.
Also, a stunningly talented cast. As a LODS virgin, I’ve been completely blown away by the depth of talent and natural ability in the society.
Don’t take my word for it, come see me at the Bourbon Room!
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Matt Wallace, 32, from Southend on Sea, is playing the role of Drew Boley
How long have you been a member of LODS? I’ve been a member since leaving school in 2011 (feels like a lifetime ago) Why did you join? I joined when I left school. I was always into acting and singing and wanted a way of carrying this on and LODs has been the perfect place to do so and provided lots of opportunities which I’m very grateful for. I also guested with LODs in a few shows from a younger age and I always wanted to become a member. What was the last play/musical you saw? The last show I saw was Moulin Rouge. If you could play any role, what would it be? I don’t really have a dream role but since being cast in this role I would say this has turned out to be a dream role of mine. Rock music and being a ‘wannabe rocker’ was always something that I loved when I was younger and still do, so I’m really grateful to have been cast in this role. Having the opportunity to do this with my friends in LODs also makes it even better. When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found… Outside of LODs I also perform in band called Rooskin, so I can be found living my inner ‘Drew Boley life’ in pubs/venues in the South East area! Tell us about the show in your own words It's set on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, the story follows Sherrie, a small-town girl, and Drew, a city boy, both chasing dreams of fame. There are other story lines within the show but don’t want to give too much away. Its not your typical musical… Rock of Ages is a jukebox musical featuring classic rock hits from the 80s, including songs by Journey, Bon Jovi, Foreigner and lots of other Rock hits. |
Matt in rehearsal
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What is your favourite part of the show and why? There are lots but to give one I would say my favourite part of the show is when its getting to the end of Act 1. It’s a moment in the show where Drew is provided with an opportunity of fulfilling his rock star dream and ends with Drew getting up on stage and closing the night.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. 'Insecure' at first whereby he lacks certain confidence to chase his dream and how he acts around Sherrie with a nervous energy, ‘Idealistic’ with his passion and wanting to become a rockstar and ‘Transformative’ where his character discovers that he lives for both music and romance.
How do you learn your lines? Nothing too creative other than reading them over and over in the script to then setting the scene with the actions/movements helping to learn the lines.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? I don’t really have one but I have just finished watching the TV series ‘Adolescence’ and the portrayal of the dad played by Stephen Graham was brilliant. He’s also been in a lot of films / series that I have enjoyed and every role he plays with a lot of variety.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I got the odd line wrong here and there and forgotten to come on stage. Luckily those moments weren’t too critical in those shows and I don’t really get a moment to switch off in this one, so hopefully I’ll be paying attention this time round!
What’s your favourite dressing room item? I haven’t had one in the past but for this show I would say my nebuliser!
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? I am looking forward to these rocky outfits but I did wear a scuba diving outfit during Ghost. Luckily it was only for one scene!
Why do you think people should see the show? People should come and see the show because it’s got so much talent with everyone giving 110% in their performances. Its so funny and it’s going to be such a great memorable show. It’s not your normal musical, so for those that are not into so called musicals then this is a perfect show. All the music is rock classics that are great to the ear and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve been to an epic 80s rock concert. Hopefully see you there!
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. 'Insecure' at first whereby he lacks certain confidence to chase his dream and how he acts around Sherrie with a nervous energy, ‘Idealistic’ with his passion and wanting to become a rockstar and ‘Transformative’ where his character discovers that he lives for both music and romance.
How do you learn your lines? Nothing too creative other than reading them over and over in the script to then setting the scene with the actions/movements helping to learn the lines.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? I don’t really have one but I have just finished watching the TV series ‘Adolescence’ and the portrayal of the dad played by Stephen Graham was brilliant. He’s also been in a lot of films / series that I have enjoyed and every role he plays with a lot of variety.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I got the odd line wrong here and there and forgotten to come on stage. Luckily those moments weren’t too critical in those shows and I don’t really get a moment to switch off in this one, so hopefully I’ll be paying attention this time round!
What’s your favourite dressing room item? I haven’t had one in the past but for this show I would say my nebuliser!
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? I am looking forward to these rocky outfits but I did wear a scuba diving outfit during Ghost. Luckily it was only for one scene!
Why do you think people should see the show? People should come and see the show because it’s got so much talent with everyone giving 110% in their performances. Its so funny and it’s going to be such a great memorable show. It’s not your normal musical, so for those that are not into so called musicals then this is a perfect show. All the music is rock classics that are great to the ear and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve been to an epic 80s rock concert. Hopefully see you there!
James in rehearsal
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James Cohen from Shoeburyness is playing the narrator, Lonny
How long have you been a member of LODS? I joined LODS for the second time, in 2017 for Copacabana. Why did you join? I joined because I wanted to fill a void in my life, with performing. I had been away from the stage for some time and knew some people in LODS who encouraged me to come back. Danielle Hedley-Jameson can be very convincing at times. What was the last play/musical you saw? I last saw Moulin Rouge in the West End. If you could play any role, what would it be? I think that I have always had an ambition to play Frankie Valli. Not to say that I think I could sing it, but I have always loved the music. When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found… Is there a life outside of LODS? It always seems as though there is something LODS related on the agenda. I think because of the times that we do share together, the friends that you make at LODS, also become your social life aswell, so there is a lot to be grateful for both on and off the stage. |
Tell us about the show in your own words. I’d say that Rock of Ages is your typical juke box musical really. It has some excellent comedy moments and a collection of amazing characters. Sometimes you find that musicals become a little fixated by one or two characters, but Rock of Ages truly tells a story through the eyes of a number of characters which makes for a really dynamic and really exciting story.
What is your favourite part of the show and why? I have to say that my favourite moment in the show is the opening. It’s certainly busy for me, but it’s high energy and such a great way to introduce the show and the characters. I absolutely love it.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. Eccentric, comical, flirtatious.
How do you learn your lines? For me, my learning comes once the scene is set. I find it much simpler to break it down scene by scene. I like to arrive at the rehearsal having an understanding of the scene and then by repetition, I will naturally begin to pick up that scene before moving onto setting the next.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? I think it’s very difficult to pinpoint a favourite actor and it often comes down to individual performances. I’ve always found the character of Captain Jack Sparrow in pirates of the Caribbean so iconic. I feel that Johnny Depp really did understand the assignment and I’m a real stickler for a good character actor. Sir David Jason has always stood out for me as Del Boy too. Certainly for nostalgic reasons, but also the ability of touching every possible emotion in only a few lines of dialogue is testament to the writing, but also the performance, turning even the most emotional moments, on their head with comedy.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I’d love to say no, but absolutely. My worst one being in sixth form completely forgetting the words to a song, to the point that nothing would come out of my mouth at all and I had to leave the stage. Luckily it was a showcase of individuals, so I didn’t ruin it for anyone else and was able to go back and do the number again later, but it’s one of those ‘I wish the ground would swallow me whole’ moments.
What’s your favourite dressing room item? I’m not one to have any dressing room rituals or things that I have to have. I’m always well hydrated though and I love to brush my teeth before going on stage.
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? It has to be Lord Farquaad I think. Iconic. Im still referred to as ‘the tiny man’ or similar to this day. I think it’s down to the character…
Why do you think people should see the show? The music is just incredible. It’s such a great era of songs that rehearsing them each week is just amazing. On top of that, there is such a huge array of character performances that it’s certainly one not to be missed.
What is your favourite part of the show and why? I have to say that my favourite moment in the show is the opening. It’s certainly busy for me, but it’s high energy and such a great way to introduce the show and the characters. I absolutely love it.
Describe your character in Rock of Ages in 3 words. Eccentric, comical, flirtatious.
How do you learn your lines? For me, my learning comes once the scene is set. I find it much simpler to break it down scene by scene. I like to arrive at the rehearsal having an understanding of the scene and then by repetition, I will naturally begin to pick up that scene before moving onto setting the next.
Who is your favourite actor/actress? I think it’s very difficult to pinpoint a favourite actor and it often comes down to individual performances. I’ve always found the character of Captain Jack Sparrow in pirates of the Caribbean so iconic. I feel that Johnny Depp really did understand the assignment and I’m a real stickler for a good character actor. Sir David Jason has always stood out for me as Del Boy too. Certainly for nostalgic reasons, but also the ability of touching every possible emotion in only a few lines of dialogue is testament to the writing, but also the performance, turning even the most emotional moments, on their head with comedy.
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed? I’d love to say no, but absolutely. My worst one being in sixth form completely forgetting the words to a song, to the point that nothing would come out of my mouth at all and I had to leave the stage. Luckily it was a showcase of individuals, so I didn’t ruin it for anyone else and was able to go back and do the number again later, but it’s one of those ‘I wish the ground would swallow me whole’ moments.
What’s your favourite dressing room item? I’m not one to have any dressing room rituals or things that I have to have. I’m always well hydrated though and I love to brush my teeth before going on stage.
What’s the best costume you’ve ever worn in a show? It has to be Lord Farquaad I think. Iconic. Im still referred to as ‘the tiny man’ or similar to this day. I think it’s down to the character…
Why do you think people should see the show? The music is just incredible. It’s such a great era of songs that rehearsing them each week is just amazing. On top of that, there is such a huge array of character performances that it’s certainly one not to be missed.
Photos: Kim Tobin Photography