‘Rock of Ages’ includes many 1980s hits 

Rock music fans are invited to wear 1980s-themed clothing and witness some of their favorite songs being integrated into a story on stage. 

Some super fans might even choose to watch from new VIP seats in the theater’s orchestra pit. 

Richmond Civic Theatre is opening its 2024-2025 season with “Rock of Ages,” a musical comedy that’s new to Wayne County. 

The jukebox musical prompts memories of an era when bands had big egos, big guitar solos and even bigger hair, its promoters say.  

“Rock” includes hits from Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry, Poison, Europe and other well-known bands. 

Eight performances are scheduled from Thursday, Aug. 8, through Sunday, Aug. 11, and Thursday, Aug. 15, through Sunday, Aug. 18.

In a new twist, RCT is offering a new opportunity for a wider audience to buy discounted tickets for “Rock” on Thursdays.

On Aug. 8, all tickets are $15, except $10 upper balcony seats and the new $25 VIP pit seats. Those who purchase pit seats will sit at bar tables and have priority seating, backstage pass lanyards, a photo op with a featured cast member and other perks. Some pit seats are already sold out. 

On Aug. 15, all tickets will be buy one, get one free. Online buyers can use the discount code BOGO. 

Ryan Shaw directs the story spotlighting Drew, a toilet cleaner and aspiring musical star (Austin Snyder). 

Set in the late 1980s in Hollywood, Drew longs to take the stage and develop a relationship with small-town girl Sherri (Cassidy Ballin), fresh off the bus from Kansas with stars in her eyes.

However, Drew’s fairy tale could end when developers sweep into town with plans to turn one of the last legendary music venues into a strip mall. Audiences will learn if Drew, Sherri and their gang can save Sunset Strip before it’s too late.

“Rock” was performed more than 2,300 times on Broadway between 2009 and 2015. It received five Tony nominations, including “Best Musical.”