Rock Of Ages At Milton Keynes Theatre Review

Reviewed by Hilz

It was quite a show!

Arrival at the theatre was fairly straightforward. We had to queue outside because of the Covid policy, in the rain at times, but it didn’t take too long to get in through the doors, and we were pleased to see that they have a good Covid policy in place. We were required to present proof of immunity – which could be double vaccination, a negative lateral flow test result, or Proof of natural immunity i.e. a positive PCR test in the last six months.

The theatre doors were kept wide open for airflow, which was good, but it did mean that it was a little bit chilly to enjoy drinks in the foyer. This wasn’t a problem of course because we just went through to the auditorium where the temperature was fine.

There was medium to heavy rock music playing as we took our seats – very appropriate.

Probably an even mix of male and female, almost all adult.

Hard-core rockers were in abundance – many black T-shirts with tour dates on, many heads bobbing already to the beat, some younger and some ageing rockers – all beginning to enjoy a good time already – getting in the mood.

So – onto the musical itself:

The show began well with rousing tunes and our introduction to “ Lonnie“ our host.

Lonnie was played by Joe Gash making his theatre debut – you would never have known – he is absolutely a rising star and the standout performance of the show for us. He truly was hilarious and had his character down to a T. His interaction with the audience was just brilliant and the whole show was genuinely funny.

Generally we felt that the visuals and content were appropriate for over 18s only. There did not seem to be any age restrictions on the show but we certainly would not have taken any children or teens. The dancing and costumes were provocative in most scenes and the jokes and language were strong.

Another standout performance was Jenny Fitzpatrick as Justice. When she first sang out her mini solo it was amazing. Sadly she didn’t seem to have any other solos which we would have really enjoyed.

We would also have liked more of the quieter rock ballads to appreciate the range of voices more as the instruments were so loud that the singers seemed to be singing at the top of their voices most of the time.

Having said that the musicians were excellent – particularly the electric guitar players.

The story was all about an area of downtown with a music bar and strip club which was going to be demolished and the plan to save it. With broken dreams and dashed hopes plus a love story or two woven in.  The romances came complete with initial attraction, misunderstandings, other love interests and happy endings.

Talking of happy endings the finale of ‘don’t stop believing’ where the cast got us all up on our feet to sing and dance was a really good way to end and a really good feel good factor.

Kevin Clifton, the main star who played Stacee Jaxx gave an appeal at the end to tell everyone everywhere that theatre is back, and theatre is good, and to please come and fill the seats again.

As we left the theatre we could hear people saying “brilliant“.

If you like rock music you will love this show.

Rating: 3.5/5

Rock of Ages is on at Milton Keynes theatre from Tuesday 28th September – Saturday 2nd October 2021

Tickets cost from £13.00 plus a transaction fee of £3.65

For more information or to book tickets please visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/rock-of-ages/milton-keynes-theatre/ or phone the box office on 03330 096690.

500 Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 3NZ