There’s something undeniably infectious about Rock of Ages. From the moment the opening chords rip through the theatre, you’re transported to a time when leather jackets were standard issue and hairspray practically a food group. This show knows exactly what it’s doing — and it does it with reckless, glorious abandon.

Staged tonight at Paradise in Augustines, the venue is spot on. An open-floor set, a live five-piece band at the back, and prop-littered seating that practically kisses the front row — it’s immersive, loud, and utterly alive.

Plot-wise? It’s barely there — a wisp of a story involving a girl, a boy, and some cartoonish capitalists trying to scrub the sleaze off Sunset Strip. But who’s here for narrative nuance? This is all about the ride: big hair, bigger dreams, and a soundtrack that kicks the fourth wall in with steel-capped boots. Journey, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Def Leppard — the jukebox is stacked, the amps are cranked, and resistance is futile. Within minutes, you’re humming along involuntarily, shoulder-shimmying your way into full rock-ballad possession. It’s clichés on parade — and every single one is part of the fun.

There’s no subtlety here — nor should there be. The set gleams with faux-club excess, dripping in neon and swagger. The cast bring unstoppable energy, nailing both the raucous group numbers and cheeky solos with total commitment. “Don’t Stop Believin’” lands like a communal rallying cry, and even the sceptics were singing.

What really elevates this production is the casting — from top to bottom, an ensemble of excellent actors, dancers and singers who sound like they’ve been gargling diamonds and dust. From our love-struck leads Drew and Sherrie (Joshua Scott and Georgia Brennan) to Stacee Jaxx (Ryan Livingstone), a bona fide rock god, every performance hits hard.

The choreography is outstanding — tight, dynamic, and delivered with pinpoint precision. And musically, the show is backed by a brilliant on-stage band that brings the whole thing roaring to life.

By the final encore, you’re buzzing — lungs full of dry ice, ears ringing, grin firmly in place. It’s not groundbreaking theatre, but it is unapologetically fun, delivered with enough polish and power to win over even the most hardened musical snob.

Bare Productions have delivered something rather wonderful. So pour some sugar on it — and get down to see it, now.

****

Reviewed by Steve H

Paradise at Augustine’s

20.13 to 22.15

Until 9th