ROCK OF AGES
- writeonarts
- May 7
- 2 min read
Director: Katie Hansen
Vocal Director: Alex Pelham-Waerea
Choreographer: Emelia Hawthorn
Producer: Hollie Doyle-Adams
Joint production: Sacred Heart Girls’ College and St John’s College
6-10 May 2025
Sacred Heart Girls’ College and St John’s College have joined forces to present the jukebox musical Rock of Ages. Nominated for 5 Tony Awards, a 2012 film adaption starred Tom Cruise. The musical is filled with ‘80s bangers from bands including Bon Jovi, Poison, Journey, Whitesnake and Europe. It’s the age-old story of a girl from the Midwest moving to Los Angeles to fulfil her dreams of becoming an actress. She meets a boy who gets her a job in a bar. Unfortunately, the bar is about to be demoed by a mother and son duo. Patrons and fans of a rockstar join forces to save the venue.
The wardrobe team were kept busy with costume changes. Numerous items had been curated, and the overall effect was era-appropriate and well-considered. The costumes for “We Built This City” were a standout, as were a pair of t-shirts in Act II.
Emelia Hawthorn’s choreography was reminiscent of the eighties and captivating. The entire cast was well rehearsed, and the formations were tight and accurate. Hawthorn’s troupe were fit, poised and expressive.
Well-known local musical theatre star Alex Pelham-Waerea took on the role of Vocal Director. Vocalists such as Lou Gramm, Jon Bon Jovi, Bret Michaels, Steve Perry, and David Coverdale may have had big hair and tight leather pants, but they also had massive voices and those guys could sing. Pelham-Waerea was fortunate to have some great talent to work with from both schools. The harmonies in “The Final Countdown” “Can’t Fight This Feeling” and “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” were exceptional.
Director Katie Hanson has a strong background in theatre so knows the tricks to keep the pace moving, and how to create levels and interesting vignettes. Comic moments, freezes and energetic antics kept the mood light and entertaining throughout. The leads were confident in their roles, and amongst the ensemble was some extraordinary talent. The entire Rock of Ages cast were captivating across the stage.
Usually I would add a ticketing link about now, but the season is completely sold out. Congratulations to the students and staff of Sacred Heart Girls’ College and St John’s College on their sell-out season of Rock of Ages. You all rocked!
Photos: Ross Hale
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