Rock Of Ages – Lichfield Operatic Society
Lichfield Garrick
Monday 15th September 2025 (Dress Rehearsal)
By : Nigel Gambles
Photography by : Studio 55 Photography
Rock of Ages is ultimately a love story set in the 80’s in LA. Drew (Lewis Collier-Smith) is ‘just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit‘, hoping to make it big as a rock star. He meets ‘small town girl‘ Sherrie (Shannon Robinson) who also has a dream, she wants to be a famous actress. Like most stories, their tale of falling in love isn’t an easy ride.
The story takes place between two clubs on Sunset Strip. The show was loud, bright and it definitely was rocking!
Lonny (James Pugh) introduced himself and the show, not only was he a ‘barman’ at The Bourbon Bar, he was also the Narrator. He absolutely stole the show for me, he was hilarious, so at ease with the audience, he was OTT which made him more funny, he was loud and loveable. Shannon Robinson is Sherrie, she is perfect with the right amount of naivety for the girl in the big city, and she has the most gorgeous voice. Lewis who plays Drew the bus boy who just doesn’t know how good his voice really is produces a great performance of the shy and quiet and unassuming singer with a strong and powerful voice.
This show is a different kind of musical, it definitely doesn’t take itself seriously. It was fun and naughty, very naughty in parts! It was extremely cheesy, but I love cheese. It was very tongue-in-cheek and has a concert-style feel throughout. Adam Merrall plays Stacee Jaxx and he gives a great performance.
What makes this show fantastic is the cast, all of whom are fantastic. The singing and of course the soundtrack. The cast are all stars, their voices are fantastic.
Director Emma Hall has done an amazing job with the cast, every single member was full of enthusiasm and having the time of their lives. Charlotte Jervis on choreography duty yet again delivers some truly amazing and perfectly synchronised routines. Finally David Easto, musical director and band leader. The band were spot on and their renditions of the 80’s classics perfect.
The part of the show that had everyone standing up and dancing in the aisles is the soundtrack. The massive 80’s hits that the whole musical is set against. Journeys ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ was sung towards the end, bringing the audience up on their feet, clapping and singing along. Other massive hits includes ‘Built This City’, ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ and ‘The Final Countdown’.
Rock Of Ages is a show I won’t forget and it’s rocking! It was loud, fun, naughty and brilliant!
