“Rock Of Ages” will give those who remember the decade of excess a moment of nostalgia

This South Valley Civic Theatre  production of “Rock Of Ages” offers a charming, dedicated talented cast that really enjoy being a part of this production. Photo by Marty Cheek

By Camille Bounds

South Valley Civic Theatre brings “Rock Of Ages” to the Morgan Hill Playhouse State. The show is a huge, brassy, energetic tribute to classic 1980s rock, with over the top ballads to the harsh glamour and rough energy of the Sunset Strip.

This jukebox musical features 28  hits from the decade including “I Wanna Rock,” “We Built This City,”  “Don’t Stop Believin,’” “Every Rose Has A Thorn,” “Wanted  Dead Or Alive,” “I Wanna Know What Love is,” and “Here I Go Again.” The young performers do a fine job belting out the spine-tingling big-hair ballads. The 40 dedicated teens from the South Valley area give their all in this entertaining show, a family-friend version of the Broadway hit. The cast move with a vibrancy and liveliness similar to that of a runaway train.

Leading characters in this boy-meets-girl, boy-loses-girl, boy-gets-girl story are Andy Gonzalez, Emily Pember, Gannon Janisch and Jenna Hernandez. They all have wonderful voices and deliver their songs with gusto and feeling.

Director/choreographer Megan Griffin takes  her cast on a journey that keeps the audience attention. Michelle Griffin’s colorful costumes, hair and make-up and set designs are timely and interesting. Lighting designer Dylan Maack blends the sets colorfully without missing a cue. Mike Rubino’s orchestra carries the show with well-played music by Ethan Popp with the book by Chris D’Arienzo.

“Rock Of Ages” will give those in the audience who remember the decade of excess a moment of nostalgia. And those roaming this planet later on will get an interesting look at what was a fascinating time for American rock music.

Details:

Show: South Valley Civic Theatre’s musical “Rock Of Ages”

Where: Morgan Hill Community Playhouse17090 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill

When: Weekends through March 14; evening and matinees available

Tickets: $18-$28

For tickets, information and reservations go to www.svct.org.