✭Matinée Wednesday: Round Twenty-Two
So, let’s get one thing straight: Rock of Ages is actually pretty good. I know, I know… I can’t believe that I feel that way, but I can’t lie. I am a self-proclaimed fan of “jukebox musicals” — I loved Jersey Boys, and American Idiot. Even Movin’ Out was pretty good. But I hate the 80s, I hate hair bands and I pretty much thought I’d hate this show. Don’t get me wrong, I’d never actually pay for tickets to see Rock of Ages, but I did get a pair comped through work and happily, albeit reluctantly, attended.
If the producers were going for trashy when designing the interior of the theatre, they achieved that vision with honors. I mean, have you ever been to a Broadway show that had beer vendors patrolling the aisles? Didn’t think so. Unless, of course, you’ve seen this show.
Upon entering the theatre, the ushers hand you, along with your Playbill, one official Rock of Ages “lighter.”
Not only useful for holding up during those power-ballads, (“Don’t Stop Believing”), these fun little gadgets help you read your Playbill in the dimly lit theatre.
I definitely recommend the show. If you’re into serious theatre, this probably isn’t the best show for you. But, if you want a distraction for a couple of hours, the experience is well worth it. And, some of the best performances come from your fellow audience members, who, at my show, looked like they were all from Staten Island and had a penchant for aerosol hairspray.
