Rock Of Ages

Rock of Ages: Youth Edition

Preston College Foundation Learning.

There is something special about theatre when it brings together a community of people with different talents, experiences and strengths, all united by a shared passion for performance. Preston College Foundation Learning's production of Rock of Ages: Youth Edition achieved exactly that, delivering an energetic and heartfelt performance that celebrated not only the spirit of rock music but also the power of inclusive theatre.

From the moment audiences entered the black box studio, it was clear that this was a production that had been carefully considered. The performance space had been transformed with an imaginative set created by Foundation Learning Art and Design students. The design made excellent use of every inch of the venue, extending beyond the stage itself and incorporating additional lighting into the balcony spaces on either side. This created an immersive environment that drew the audience directly into the world of the show.

The collaborative nature of the production was evident throughout. Students from the Creative Make-Up Training Academy supported the hair and makeup design, while numerous college departments worked together behind the scenes. This cross-college approach highlighted the strength of community collaboration and demonstrated how performing arts can unite a wide range of creative disciplines.

Special recognition must go to Samii Porter and Rachael Soar, who undertook multiple responsibilities throughout the production. Between directing, choreography, musical direction, costume support and technical roles, they clearly invested an enormous amount of time and energy into bringing this production to life. Their passion and commitment shone through in every aspect of the performance.

One of the most impressive aspects of the evening was the production's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Rather than adapting around performers, the direction embraced the individuality of the cast and integrated every performer naturally into the storytelling. The use of wheelchairs and mobility aids became part of the visual language of the production, while British Sign Language interpreters ensured the performance remained accessible to a wider audience. The result was a production that demonstrated how inclusive theatre can be both artistically ambitious and highly effective.

Leading the audience through the story was Oliver Procter as Lonny. Acting as narrator is never an easy task, particularly in a production as fast-paced as Rock of Ages, yet Oliver approached the challenge with confidence and charisma. From his first entrance, his energy levels never  dipped below 110%. His characterisation was engaging throughout, and he guided the audience effortlessly through the twists and turns of the narrative. His interaction with audience members was natural and confident, a skill that often takes performers years of experience to develop. With a substantial amount of dialogue to learn, Oliver delivered an assured and entertaining performance.

Yllka Selmani gave a memorable performance as Hilda Klinemann, the ambitious German property developer determined to reshape the Sunset Strip. Yllka brought strength and authority to the role whilst also demonstrating excellent comedic timing. Every gesture and vocal choice appeared carefully considered, creating a well-developed character whose presence was felt whenever she stepped on stage.

Sarah (Marty) O'Donoghue portrayed Drew with warmth and sincerity. As one of the show's emotional anchors, Drew's journey requires the audience to invest in the character's hopes, dreams and relationships. Sarah (Marty) achieved this successfully, guiding the audience through the character's development whilst delivering several enjoyable musical moments along the way.

A special mention must also go to the performer who stepped into the role of Dennis Dupree at short notice. Whilst the programme credits William Yates in the role, the performance was ultimately undertaken by a member of the Acting Academy who answered the call when support was needed.

Taking on a principal role in a musical is no small feat, particularly when stepping into an established company late in the rehearsal process. Although there were moments where the script remained in hand, this never distracted from the performance. What shone through was the performer's understanding of the character, commitment to the production and willingness to shoulder a significant responsibility for the benefit of the entire cast.

Theatre is built on teamwork, and this was a wonderful example of that spirit in action. By stepping into the role, he ensured the production could continue and allowed his fellow performers the opportunity to share their hard work with an audience. His contribution may not have been planned from the beginning, but it was undoubtedly valued by everyone involved. He deserves tremendous credit for his professionalism, courage and support of the company.

Beyond these standout performances, this was very much an ensemble effort. Every member of the company contributed to creating the vibrant atmosphere required for a rock musical. Whether delivering principal roles, supporting scenes or helping to create the energy of the ensemble numbers, each performer played an important part in the success of the production.

Congratulations to the entire cast:

Oliver Procter (Lonny Barnett), Sarah (Marty) O'Donoghue (Drew Boley), William Yates (Dennis Dupree), Emily Makinson (Sherrie Christian), Olivia Taylor (Regina), Yllka Selmani (Hilda Klinemann), Jake Vickers (Franz Klinemann), Kodi Moore (Justice Charlier), Kristian Wade (Stacee Jaxx/Sherrie's Father), Kay Cullen (Ja'Keith Gill/Sherrie's Mother/Waitress #5), Phoebe Kenyon (Mayor/Ensemble), Georgia Barritt (Constance (Reporter)/Ensemble), Ellie Pearson-Rhymes (Waitress #1), Georgina Melvin (Waitress #2), Niamh McNamara (Waitress #3), Lucy Boyd (Waitress #4), Lily Westhead, Eve Ford-Batty, Milly Kay, Jenny Woods, Katy Cookson, Tara Butterworth, and Jeannie Westworth.

Behind the scenes, the technical and stage management teams worked tirelessly to support the performance, while the lighting design helped transform the black box space into an immersive rock venue.

Productions such as this remind us that theatre is at its strongest when everyone is given the opportunity to participate, contribute and shine. Rock of Ages: Youth Edition was not simply a showcase of musical theatre talent; it was a celebration of collaboration, creativity and inclusion. The cast and creative team should be immensely proud of what they achieved, and the audience left having witnessed something genuinely uplifting.

Productions such as this remind us that theatre is at its strongest when everyone is given the opportunity to participate, contribute and shine. Rock of Ages: Youth Edition was not simply a showcase of musical theatre talent; it was a celebration of collaboration, creativity and inclusion. Throughout the evening there was a clear sense that this production was built upon support, opportunity and teamwork. Whether it was performers stepping into roles at short notice, students from different courses contributing their expertise, or creative decisions that ensured every performer could participate fully, the production embodied the very best of community theatre. The cast and creative team should be immensely proud of what they achieved, and the audience left having witnessed something genuinely uplifting.

This production proved that great theatre isn't defined by limitations, but by the imagination, commitment and passion of the people who create it.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.