Review: Rock of Ages

So here’s the thing. I don’t like rock, I don’t like musicals and frankly I don’t like going out. Somehow I found myself going out to the rock musical “Rock of Ages”…. and it was brilliant!

Rock of Ages

I am slightly disturbed by my new found conversion to ‘fun’ but I can at least blame the relentless optimism, fat sounds and larger than life characters of Rock of Ages. A kind of less hygienic, hairier Blues Brothers.

Justin Lee Collins was particularly good with an impressive American accent and a real stage presence that took me quite by surprise.

My other embarrassment is that I thought cricketer Shane Warne was going to be in it but it turned out to be Shayne Ward who is someone else entirely. I’m quite glad I didn’t know he was an X-factor winner befor hand otherwise I’d have sat with my arms crossed scowling at him.

As it was I was really impressed that an international cricketer could carry a tune so well, especially burdened with the physique of a Greek God. Obviously the pop sensation has yet to establish himself on the global sporting arena although I’m sure it’s only a matter of time. I digress.

Not knowing what to expect I think the strong thread of humour that ran throughout was very welcome and really made Rock of Ages stand out. Written primarily to entertain rather than develop plot or characters it delivers exactly what it sets out to – to ensure a full theater of people leave happy.

I’m definitely recommending this it not just for those who’ll recognise the famous rock anthems. Even to those as committed to the puritan ideal as I am should go, after all it’s probably healthy to break the ice every now and then.

It’s at the Shaftsbury Theater for the foreseeable.