Review: ROCK OF AGES at Des Moines Performing Arts: Nothing But a Good Time
Now while this is a new production, it is the same script and songs that people enjoyed with the show before. The music was fun, and for the most part the script was as well. Act 1 still has moments that slow the show down, but the pacing in this production was much better than the original production.
What I found more intriguing this time around was the set. When I got to the show it was clear that we were in for a rock concert. I liked the boxes on stage with the logo from the show on them. This allowed for the staging to feel more like a concert than the original production. To me, this made a huge difference. By not having a fully staged show, the audience was able to sit back like they would at a concert.
Cynthia Nordstrom's costumes also added to the concert feeling of the show. She did a great job of balancing clothing that was from the 80's, but also gave me the feeling if the 80's fashion came back in this is what people would be buying off the shelf. 
But the biggest question I can see asking is how was the cast. This cast is led by Anthony Nuccio, who made the role his own. He was able to put the Midwest charm of someone coming from Michigan into the role. It made the character of Drew more relatable.
My favorite character in the show had to be John-Michael Breen as Lonny, who had the monumental task of carrying the show as well as narrating the show. His portrayal took the character from what some people consider a supporting role to the lead of the show. And he did it in a way that didn't take away from the show.
My favorite characters are still the same as the original production. Those are Franz and Regina, played by Chris Renalds and Kristina Walz respectively. I think it comes from their relationship turning out differently than what you expect it to be in the beginning of the show. They earned the biggest laugh of the night vduring with their reveal during "Hit Me With Your Best Shot." Which I'm still laughing about today.
Over all, "Rock of Ages" was a fun show that people will have a fun time seeing. It will close on March 10 in Des Moines, and the tour will continue on after that. If you are looking for a fun time, get to this tour. For more information about Des Moines Performing Arts, who will be announcing their next Broadway season on 03/14 visit https://desmoinesperformingarts.org and you can find more information about the Rock of Ages visit www.rockofagesmusicaltour.com
Photo Credit: Jeremy Daniel
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