I managed to score some free tickets to Rock of Ages so even if it ended up being completely horrible then it was no real big loss (except for time-wasted of course.) To our great pleasure we ended up having a lovely night and of course Laney was in quite her element as there is quite a sing a long aspect to this musical. What is great about the musical is that they do their best to really involve the crowd – for example, when we were sat down they handed out “lighters” (they looked and felt like lighters but were in fact like mini light beacons) so we could wave them in the air at the appropriate moment – just like an actual concert and of course throughout they encourage the crowd to really get into the songs, in fact they quite often broke the “fourth wall” to speak directly to the audience.

The introduction was quite funny. Something along the lines of “If you don’t like us we are We Will Rock You (in case you don’t catch the reference this is the other rock musical that is out at the moment.) If you do like us, we are Rock of Ages!!”. And then for the traditional lines around turning off your phone they had converted it into Rock of Ages speak – if you answer your phone you’re a douche etc. It’s nice to see the customisation at the start.

Despite the similarities in titles, Rock of Ages is completely different to We Will Rock You. Where We Will Rock You is almost a political statement on society and compliance (set in the future where everyone dresses and thinks the same and where music is forbidden or unknown), Rock of Ages takes the more traditional Hollywood story of two youngsters searching for stardom in LA although There was some sort of political statement in there about how big corporations are bad (via the big bad developer who was trying to tear down the Strip.) Music-wise We Will Rock You is based on the songs of Queen, Rock of Ages more on the 1980s classic rock hits of such rock stars as Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, Poison etc.

In other ways the two musicals are quite similar with the fact that neither really takes itself seriously, both had great bands, singers and dancers. Shout out to the narrator, Simon Lipkin, in Rock of Ages – hilarious and fantastic.

The drawcards to Rock of Ages are menat to be Justin Lee Collins and Shayne Ward, known famously of course for his stint on X Factor and also for just being a generally a beautiful looking guy. Ha. He was actually almost unrecognisable in his get up and whilst I can’t say he was extremely convincing he really did give his all to his character. But the star of the show had to be Simon Lipkin as the narrator who really brought a great comedic spin to the dialogue. Overall, cast performances were great.

This is not the type of musical which the critics are going to love but the most important audience, the general public, will. Especially if they are up for a feel good experience, rocking in (and out) of their seats to some fine classic rock songs and some great laughs. Okay yes there are a lot of stereotypes and cliches going on but hey this just added to the comedic factor – this is not meant to be taken seriously and it doesn’t try to pander to this.

Come along for a rockin’ unashamedly good time.