Rock of Ages by Mayhem Theatre Company
This week Kingston is brought to life by the Amateur Dramatics group Mayhem as they present ‘Rock of Ages’.
If you’re in the mood for a wild, electric night that’ll transport you straight to the 1980s Sunset Strip, then *Rock of Ages* is your jam! Written by Chris D’Arienzo, with music arrangements by Ethan Popp, this jukebox musical is packed with rock anthems from Journey, Bon Jovi, and other iconic bands of the era. Imagine leather jackets, neon lights, and enough hairspray to power a small nation. The story follows Sherrie, a small-town girl with big dreams, and Drew, an aspiring rocker, as they try to make it in Hollywood while dodging corporate villains who want to tear down their beloved rock club. It’s a hilarious, head-banging, heartwarming ride through love, ambition, and—of course—rock ‘n’ roll.
Where I think the trick was missed was the feeling that director John Haines was reluctant to lean into the cheesiness of the piece. Whilst filled with smart directorial choices it came across quite serious and like the 80s, which didn’t take itself too seriously, neither should this musical. The team really set out to create a technical spectacle and used many tricks in the bag, from moving lights combined with video elements to sliding doors revealing the band. It was a visual spectacle and a treat for the senses.
Dressed in the finest of 80s apparel, perfectly matched and en genre by Grace Fernandez (Also assistant director) the ensemble really were the shining stars of Mayhem’s production. The one thing I always love about am dram are the hidden gems, the diamonds in the rough, those members of the ensemble who shine and they are the true backbone of this performance. From disgruntled hippies to waitresses with number for a name they did it all and showed their versatility. Within that main ensemble was Waitress number 1, Tara Blackburn who served comedy as well as she did shots, but not only that, had strong and under used vocals – she had a solo moment in act 1 and was never heard of again and that was a massive shame. A core team of ‘featured dancers’ brought the intricate choreography by Lauren Price to life. Frances Nicholson, Hannah McKenna and Miriam Jaffe, were true standouts and you couldn’t take your eyes of them as they ate up every step thrown at them. The versatility in that ensemble truly was something to watch.
Rock of Ages, like most musicals, has one main female part and playing Sherrie was Eleanor Leaper – why that woman is not on a professional stage is beyond me. Performers like her really do make London amateur dramatics something more. With acting akin to Debra Messing, Eleanor’s comic time and heartfelt acting, even in a piece that isn’t too serious, are a treat to watch. Besides her acting ability, this venue is too small for her voice. Never overpowering her vocal mastery is sublime and consistent; none of the songs feel like an effort to her and sitting in your seat you can’t help but trust her performance. Accompanying her in top billing is Mat Hall playing Drew. An aspiring rock star trying to make his way in Hollywood. Hall’s vocals and acting complement each other as if they have been on stage together forever. They have great on stage chemistry and together make a great pairing.
A major stand out for me was Elizabeth Pilcher as the proletarian trying to stop the demolition of the strip by the villainous Hertz, portrayed wonderfully by Harriet Ruby. Pilcher’s comedy timing is crisp, accurate and lands each line with finesse, South West London’s answer Rebel Wilson, for sure!
Mayhem’s *Rock of Ages* roars through Kingston, unleashing a nostalgic, neon-lit journey back to the ‘80s that will leave audiences grinning ear-to-ear. From the head-banging rock anthems to the dazzlingly over-the-top costumes and electric choreography, the spirit of Sunset Strip is brought to life with unbridled enthusiasm. For an evening of feel-good escapism and rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia, *Rock of Ages* is not to be missed.
Mayhem has certainly made their mark on the strip!
Review by James Lee Campbell
Rock of Ages is on at ACT theatre, Kingston College until 2nd November. You can buy tickets here.
If you like this review you might also like my review of The Wedding Singer by Centre Stage, [Blank] by Sedos and Saturday Night Fever by Geoids.