The plot of “Rock of Ages” may be light, but the show makes up for that with an abundance of beloved ‘80s tunes. The musical, debuting shortly in Atlanta with gay-friendly “American Idol” contestant Constantine Maroulis, also has a notable gay moment in its second act.
In a legendary rock club in Los Angeles, circa 1987, small-town girl Sherrie falls for Drew (Maroulis), a young busboy with dreams of being a rocker. As local developers convince the mayor to make the area a wholesome environment and get rid of sex, drugs and rock and roll, the club owner coaxes a legendary band to play their final gig there. Along the way, there is plenty of music from the likes of Def Leppard, Styx, Pat Benatar, Bon Jovi, REO Speedwagon and more to move its story along.
Maroulis thinks “Rock of Ages” is similar in tone to American musicals of the ‘30s.