Rock of Ages

Holroyd Musical and Dramatic Society

If you’re after a night of unapologetic fun, nostalgic rock anthems, and theatrical cheekiness, Holroyd Musical and Dramatic Society’s production of Rock of Ages hits the mark and then some. It’s a show that revels in all the glory and cliché of 80s Rock with an irrepressible sense of self-deprecating fun and a clear intention to bring the audience along for the wonderfully ridiculous ride. 

Set in 1987 on L.A.’s Sunset Strip, the story follows Drew (Cameron McCredie), a slightly awkward dreamer who works in a bar but carries aspirations of being a rockstar, and Sherrie (Lauren Abela), a hopeful actress fresh from the Midwest. Their romance unfolds at the Bourbon Room, a beloved but struggling rock venue facing demolition at the hands of German developers. What follows is a whirlwind of love, ambition and protest presented by an eclectic gathering of caricatured characters underscored by a soundtrack of ’80s hits that has the audience barely resisting the urge to sing along.

Lonny, the narrator and part-time sound guy, is the first character the audience meets. Peter Gollop brings him to life with an almost reckless abandon, breaking the fourth wall to guide us through the plot with comic timing and a knowing wink. His rapport with the audience is one of the production’s highlights, keeping the energy high and the laughs flowing.

Drew and Sherrie’s awkward romance is the foundational storyline of the show. Cameron McCredie offers the audience a boy-next-door with a rockstar’s voice - earnest, endearing, and impossible not to cheer for. In her Holroyd debut, Lauren Abela shines as the small-town dreamer with a big voice and even bigger heart.

Stacee Jaxx, the egotistical rock god, is played with hilarious bravado by Richard Mills while Clive Hobson’s portrayal of Dennis, the Bourbon Room’s world-weary owner, brings an engaging mix of heart and humour that seeps through his gruff and grumpy exterior. Hertz and Franz, the cartoonish villains of the tale, are delightfully ridiculous and full of surprises.  Simon Peppercorn is a formidable booming and bellowing force while Douglas Bryant is his brilliant comic foil, portraying the completely lovable and hilariously funny Franz. 

Completing the cast of quirky characters is Koren Beale (Justice Charlier) who blends powerful vocals with a compassionate heart as she cares for "her girls” in The Venus Club, and also Caitlin Dennis as the relentless activist Regina. Under the direction of Georgee Glynn, this cast of talented performers come together as an unstoppable force of rock, energy and laughs.

Musically, the show is a heartfelt tribute to the 80s. Musical Director Matt Glynn’s passion for the score is evident not only in the solid preparation of the cast but also in the sense of joy and fun that he exudes from the vantage point of the on-stage band. It is always fun to have the band joining the cast on stage and engaging in the scenes as well as the songs, and the HMDS Rock of Ages band bring the rock attitude in droves!  

The love of rock infiltrates every performance. Numbers like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “We Built This City,” and “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” are delivered with vocal power and ensemble precision. The choreography is tight and playful, evoking the feel and energy of a live rock concert while maintaining theatrical clarity. The cast clearly relishes every moment, and their enthusiasm is infectious.

M Seedsman’s choreography is a highlight. There is energy and precision in every number, utilising the skills of the whole cast to full effect. Special mention should be made, though, of the featured dancers who anchor every scene – they lead the rock energy, swoon over rock gods, swing sledgehammers with sass, and seemingly defy gravity in The Venus Club.

Beneath the glitter and guitar solos, Rock of Ages offers a gentle message about holding onto what matters - community, creativity, and the courage to chase your dreams. It’s a celebration of misfits, music, and the magic of live performance, and this production captures that spirit beautifully.

 https://bit.ly/ROCKOFAGESTIX

 7 - 23 November 2025

 Redgum Function Centre, Wentworthville