Rock of Ages

Goldfields Repertory Club’s Rock of Ages has a live music venue vibe, more akin to a rock concert than a musical, with its audience drinking throughout, singing along, and responding to the show with great enthusiasm. 

On its second weekend of a three-week run, actor Paul Andinich, playing Hertz, was ill with Covid, leaving director Lauren Chapman-Holle stepping into his shoes, to play the role as ‘Helga’. Lauren did a superb job, presumably on little to no rehearsal, and you would never know that this role had not always been hers (apart from an occasional gender slip from other characters). Unfortunately, Covid had not finished with this show - and their final weekend has been postponed until late July, due to multiple cases of Covid in the cast.

The set nicely creates a run-down bar and includes a great “fold-out” wall - used very effectively. Costumes nicely evoke the “mid to late 1980s” with some great attention to detail. Recorded music, under the guidance of Musical Director Molly Johnson backs singing performed with enthusiasm and gusto.

Shannon Robertson is a very personable central character and narrator as Lonny, working especially well with Zach Hawke, funny with great timing as Dennis. Romantic leads Sherrie and Drew have lovely chemistry as played by Chloe Still and Owen Hinton.

In smaller roles, Paulette Miller shines and sings beautifully as outspoken crusader Regina, playing some strong scenes with Jack Sheehan characterising Franz with great fun. Karen Evans gives power to Justice Charlier, Dave Holle brings rock star confidence to Stacee Jaxx and Tonya Parr is solid as “Waitress #1” 

A small ensemble, most performers play multiple roles and work in “the chorus” when not otherwise engaged. Solid teamwork from all in this cast of seventeen.

Great to see a show so warmly received - a fun choice that kept its audience rocking in their seats.

Kimberley Shaw