Rock of Ages

"Rock of Ages" chews up the dream and spits back drugs, sex and rock'n'roll.

Now playing at the Cygnet Theater in Old Town San Diego "Rock of Ages" is a re-enactment of what can happen when two naïve youths try to make it big in the Los Angeles music business.

With Lonny, played by Victor E. Chan, as narrator, the audience is introduced to the players and their stories. Chan's musicality is captured in wry smiles as he lures the spectators into the performance.

"Rock of Ages" takes no prisoners. Ruthless and self-serving, it is the music industry as it annihilates the millions of wannabe nobodies. The ruthless truth without apologies.

While these characters portray possible stories of countless victims to the music industry's machine, they serve as a reminder that following one's dream can result in disaster.

The outstanding cast includes Bryan Banville as Stacee Jaxx, Drew Bradford as Joey Primo, Megan Carmitchel as Sherrie, Victor E. Chan as Lonny, Berto Fernandez as Dennis, Rory Gilbert as Drew, Emma Nossal as Regina, Anise Ritchie as Justice, John Rosen as Hertz, E.Y. Washington as the mayor and Zackary Scot Wolfe as Franz. The ensemble dancers and singers include Bailey Day Sonner, Tamara Rodriguez and Siri Hafso.

Directed by Sean Murray, the show feels real. The cast portrays a version of the truth. It is all knowing and shows its raw underbelly.

Patrick Marion conducts the onstage rock band with Tom Versen on drums, Martin Martiarena on bass, Jim Mooney on guitar and P J Bovee on rhythm guitar. Together they produce hard rock with no regrets, living the dream.

"Rock of Ages" will play until Aug. 25, at The Cygnet Theatre in Old Town San Diego. Contact the box office at (619) 337-1525 or http://www.cygnettheatre.org. This show is rated 9 out of 10.

Elizabeth Youngman-Westphal can be reached at [email protected].