Digital Program

ROCK OF AGES

BOOK
by Chris D’Arienzo

ARRANGEMENTS & ORCHESTRATIONS
by Ethan Popp

Takes you back to the time of big bands with big egos playing big guitar solos and sporting even bigger hair!

PRESENTED by Cara Seguin, Realtor

CONTENT WARNING: This version of the show includes mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. This musical explores adult language and complex themes that may be more appropriate for older teenagers and adults. Recommended for audiences aged 13 and above.

TEAM

Director/intimacy director

DESIREE MONTES*

music director

justin adams

choreographer/fight director

ashlyn bigley

Stage manager

Zoe brown

assistant stage manager

Makenzie roberts

costumer

maria tew

sound ENGINEER

parker labonte

lighting design

samuel finkEn

PROPS MASTER

FAITH MERRIMAN

SET PAINTING

Bonnie sprung

SCENIC MURALIST

Chris trovador

Set Construction

Ta'ryus Wilkinson, tommy bass

Set DRESSING

Hunter Rogers, Maine Rashaw

BACKSTAGE CREW

NATALIE RODRIGUEZ

spotlight operators

BRIELLI BRUNO, LYRA WEBER, CADENCE MIMMS, MIA MAZZANOVICH, MAINE RASHAW

*Denotes member of Actors’ Equity Association

Special thanks to Stageworks Theatre in Tampa, Florida for loaning us certain costume pieces.

Band

keys

justin adams

guitar 1

NATE CHIVERS

guitar 2

aaron lingelbach

bass

Dylan Rostin

drums

zane adams

Get to know the cast and crew

  • Zachary Racine

    DREW BOLEY

    Zachary Racine studied musical theatre and theatre education at Flagler College before pursuing his MFA in Acting at the University of Central Florida. Professional: RENT (Roger), Once (Guy), A Christmas Carol (Young Scrooge), Macbeth (Malcolm), Spring Awakening (Otto), Stuart Little (Mr. Little), Cabaret (Ernst u/s), Horn in the West (Jack u/s). Theatre UCF: The Prom (Trent), Sweeney Todd (Judge Turpin), Bright Star (Daddy Cane). Flagler College: The Old Man and the Old Moon (Old Man), White Christmas (Bob Wallace), All Shook Up (Dennis). @zachary_racine

  • Ariana Ortiz*

    SHERRIE CHRISTIAN

    Ariana Ortiz is thrilled to be a part of her first production at Theater West End! Proud to represent the Actors’ Equity Association, as she takes on the role of Sherrie. You can also find her swimming in Finding Nemo: The Big Blue & Beyond at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. She loves chocolate milk, memes, and The Kardashians. Huge thanks to her family, friends, and most importantly God for the endless love and support.

    *Denotes member of AEA

  • Cameron Jordan

    LONNY BARNETT (VOCAL CAPTAIN)

    Cameron is thrilled to be making his debut at Theater West End in a favorite role of his! Fresh off of his Outstanding Play-Musical win at The International Orlando Fringe Festival for Great Gatsby- A Musical Adaptation for which he starred as Nick Carraway, wrote the book music and lyrics for, he is excited to have “nothin’ but a good time!” Favorite Roles include: Lonny Barnett in Rock of Ages (2018 Carbonell Nomination), Charlie Brown in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Moritz Stiefel in Spring Awakening! He would like to thank his friends and family for all their love and support! Composer credits: Great Gatsby- A Musical Adaptation, The Sugarplum Ball, Dungeons and DragonsQueens, and Dungeons and DragQueens:Second Edition.
    Instagram: @camjaybway
    Www.cameronjordanpro.com

  • Jonny Jones

    DENNIS DUPREE

    Jonny is excited to be making their stage debut at Theater West End for the first time with ROCK OF AGES! Education: AMDA NYC. Theatre: Theater West End - SORDID LIVES (u/s Brother Boy). Athens - RENT (Frankie/Ensemble), A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Gymnasia). Theatre South Playhouse - MATILDA (Agatha Trunchbull), URINETOWN (Hot Blades), THE PROM (Barry). Osceola Arts - XANADU (Melpomene). Director/Choreographer: Theater West End - JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Assistant Director). S.T.A.G.E. - IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?, SMILE, I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY. Windermere Prep - ROCK OF AGES, A NIGHT OF CAMERON MACKINTOSH, ARISTOCATS, THE LITTLE MERMAID. Dancer: Countless Disney/Universal shows, parades, & special events. Love to Mom! 

  • Bella Matos

    REGINA KOONTZ

    It’s pronounced ReGYna! Bella Matos is a 20-year old performer currently pursuing her BFA in Musical Theatre at Western Connecticut State University. Making her Mainstage debut after being here for four years, she is absolutely ecstatic to be here and to share this kick-ass show with all of you. Previous roles include Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and U/S Mama Morton in Chicago. She would like to thank her family and friends for their constant support. And to dad - this show is for you. Your contagious passion for rock music has inspired me always. Let’s rock!

  • Christopher deJongh

    STACEE JAXX/FATHER

    Christopher deJongh grew up in Massachusetts before transplanting to New York and finally his home here in Orlando. Previously, Christopher performed in several regional and community theaters throughout New England. He was last seen at Theater West End as Annas (u/s Pilate) in Jesus Christ Superstar. Some favorite past roles include Charlie in Kinky Boots(TPI), Jean Valjean in Les Misérables(CST), Roger in Rent(Athens Theatre) and Jerry in The Full Monty(Broad Brook Opera House). Chris would like to thank the entire creative team for their artistry and collaboration! Special thanks to his wife Erica for being his partner in all things and his pup Luna for being a floof!

  • Monica Quinn*

    JUSTICE CHARLIER/MOTHER

    Monica Quinn is happy to return to Theater West End after playing Rhetta in Pumpboys and Dinettes last season. A proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Actors’ Equity, Monica toured internationally with The Actors’ Gang in The Exonerated and A Midsummer Night’s Dream under the direction of Academy Award winner Tim Robbins. She also originated two roles in Disney’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser and spent several years performing as a lead vocalist on luxury cruise lines. Monica works regularly in voiceover, with credits including Chase Bank, Beats by Dre, and the Louisiana Lottery. Central Florida audiences may also recognize her from performances at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. www.monicaquinn.net

    *Denotes member of AEA

  • Russell Stephens

    HERTZ KLINEMANN

    Russell is sehr glücklich to make his Theater West End debut. Recent credits: Route 66 (Winter Park Playhouse), Finding the Magic (New Generation Theatrical), Stranger Sings! (Dr. Phillips Center), 42nd Street (Osceola Arts), and Cabaret (Significant Productions), in addition to cabaret performances at the Winter Park Playhouse, the Abbey, and the Blue Bamboo. Russell's musical arrangements have been featured in cabarets, concerts, and special events throughout the southeast and in NYC. Alumnus of the University of Alabama's Musical Theatre program. IG: @brazenovertures

  • Jameson Stobbe

    FRANZ KLINEMANN (FIGHT CAPTAIN)

    Jameson just finished his internship as a professional acting intern at Florida Repertory Theatre after graduating last year from UCF with a BFA in Musical Theatre and he’s thrilled to be making his Theater West End debut. Some Theatre UCF credits include Bright Star (Billy Cane), Peter and the Starcatcher (Lord Aster, Co-Fight Choreographer, Fight Captain), and Working (Stonemason Soloist, Asst. Music Director). Some professional credits include Ragtime (Younger Brother), Hamlet (Hamlet), and Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (Ralph Paton, Fight Captain). As an Advanced Actor Combatant with the SAFD, he has 7 recommended passes and 1 basic pass in 8 different weapon disciplines. He was most recently seen in Florida Rep’s 2025 PlayLab as The Slew in Lindsay Joelle’s Dalloway: Summer at Bourton. Website: jamesonstobbe.com.

  • Sophia-Bella Carrasquillo

    ENSEMBLE (SHERRIE/REGINA U/S)

    Sophia-Bella is thrilled to finally be back at Theater West End this summer and even more grateful to return to her hometown for this amazingly ridiculous show. She is currently a rising second year at The Institute for American Musical Theater in New York City. Regionally, she has performed in the ensembles of Escape to Margaritaville, Beautiful, Rock of Ages (let’s go round two!), and as Alyssa in The Prom. Some of her other favorite roles include Velma Kelly in Chicago, Marcy in Dogfight, and Veronica in Heathers. She is beyond grateful to her family and friends for their unconditional support and love. @sophiabella.c

  • Braeden Rawa

    ENSEMBLE/PRODUCER (DREW/LONNY U/S)

    Braeden is so excited to be making his debut with Theater West End, especially with one of his favorite shows of all time. Recently, he closed another production of Rock of Ages as Drew and is so psyched to be back on the Sunset Strip! In his free time, Braeden loves to play guitar and work on his personal music projects. He wants to thank the talented creative team and cast for bringing this show to life! He would also like to thank his parents for their endless support. @braedenrawa

  • Amy Brokamp

    ENSEMBLE/WAITRESS #1/PROTESTOR

    Amy is a performer, choreographer, and dance teacher from Cincinnati, Ohio. After earning her B.S. in Dance and Arts Management from Oklahoma City University, she worked several seasons with Kings Island amusement park in shows such as Tinker’s Toy Factory, Nytewalkers, Off the Rails and more. She has also performed as a tap soloist with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. In Orlando, you can find her on stages at Universal Studios and CityWalk! She is so excited to be joining this cast of Rock of Ages and making her Theater West End debut!

  • Kyle Price

    ENSEMBLE/MAYOR

    Kyle Price is amped (!) to be back in Sanford this summer! He recently made his Theater West End debut as Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar. Past favorite credits include the national tour of Pete the Cat (Jimmy), Off Broadway’s Pip’s Island (Finn), and workshops of KL Going’s Fat Kid Rules the World (Piper). Proud CAP21 alum. Special thank you to his beyond supportive family & friends, and everyone at TWE for giving him the opportunity to perform with such a dream cast & creative team!

  • Gabe Philippe-Fisher

    ENSEMBLE/PROTESTOR/JA’KEITH GILL

    Gabe Philippe-Fisher is joyful, passionate, and a die hard fan of 80s rock music. Currently pursuing a bfa acting major at the University of Florida, he is enthused to be apart of such an electric show with such a talented cast. He would like to thank his family, teachers, and friends for being so supportive. @Gabe.PHF

  • Rhe'a Hughes

    ENSEMBLE/HOOKER/WAITRESS #2/PROTESTOR (DANCE CAPTAIN)

    Rhéa, pronounced ray-uh, grew up in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina where she began dancing at age four. She received her BA in Dance Education from the University of South Carolina in 2016 and moved to Orlando, FL shortly after graduation. Rhéa has since performed at Sea World, Capone’s Dinner and Show, Virgin Voyages, and is currently performing full time at Universal Orlando Resort as a Dancer/Actor. She also dances at Renaissance Theatre Company in shows such as Nosferatu, 54, and Off the Record. Her other theater credits include Little Shop of Horrors (Ensemble), Legally Blonde (Elle’s Mom/Ensemble), A Chorus Line (Judy), SpongeBob the Musical (Electric Skate/Ensemble), The Wild Party (Jackie U/S, Ensemble), and Young Frankenstein (Ensemble/Dance Captain). Rhea is thrilled to be making her Theater West End debut with Rock of Ages! Find her on Instagram @rheasunshine_

  • Sarah Lewis

    ENSEMBLE/CONSTANCE SACK/PROTESTOR

    Sarah Lewis is a passionate dancer and artist, making her Theater West End debut! She is a dancer originally from Kingston, Jamaica, but has been active in the Orlando entertainment community since 2020. You can typically find her at The Festival of the Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or on Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando! When she’s not performing, Sarah can be found traveling, or watching stand up comedy. Shoutout to her friends and family, as she couldn’t do any of this without the support of her village, and the biggest thank yous to the production team and cast for their artistry!

  • Giovanni Sanchez

    ENSEMBLE/PROTESTOR/JOEY PRIMO

    Giovanni Sanchez (he/him) started performing at the age of 5, but had the dream to be on stage and film since the age of 2. Some previous productions include “Cruel Intentions” (Osceola Arts), “A Chorus Line” (Dr. Phillips Center), “The Sound of Music“ (The Henegar Center), “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (Athens Theatre), “Tootsie” (Titusville Playhouse), “Anastasia” (Titusville Playhouse), and “Grease” (Athens Theatre). He is extremely excited since this is his first time performing at Theater West End. Hope you are ready to ROCK AND ROLL!!!
    Instagram: @ gions

Experience the beauty, strength, and resilience of “For Colored Girls who have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow is Enuf”. This groundbreaking choreopoem by Ntozake Shange weaves together poetry, movement, and music to tell the stories of Black women as they navigate love, loss, joy, and self-discovery. With raw honesty and breathtaking power, for colored girls celebrates sisterhood and survival in a world that challenges both. Join us for an evening of profound connection and unforgettable storytelling. TICKETS START AT $25

SEPTEMBER 5 - 21

  • Desiree Montes*

    DIRECTOR/INTIMACY DIRECTOR

    Desiree Montes is a proud member of Actors' Equity Association. She is a Singer - Actress - Dancer - Puppeteer - Voice-Over Artist - Director - Choreographer - Intimacy Director/Coordinator - Audition Preparation Coach - Arts Educator. She has also been a part of the corporate and theme park entertainment industry for 15+ years and has been seen at Universal Studios Orlando as Mabel (The Blues Brothers Show) and as the singing sorceress, Celestina Warbeck (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter), as well as Coral/Peach (Finding Nemo: the Musical), and as a Gospel/R&B Singer (Joyful! A Celebration of the Holidays!) at Walt Disney World Resorts. Some of her notable theatrical credits include: Norma Valverde (Hands on a Hardbody), Aida (Aida: The Musical), Sarah (Ragtime: the Musical), Daniela (In the Heights), Mrs. Lovett (Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, awarded the 2023 Orlando Sentinel's Best of Orlando Theater Leading Actor in a Musical), Hélène Bezukhova (Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812, awarded 5 Orlando Sentinel's 2024 Best of Orlando Theater awards), Billie Holiday in 6 regional productions of (Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill, awarded the Orlando Sentinel's 2024 Critics' Pick : Special Recognition and Top Production awards for her 2024 portrayal of Billie Holiday here at TWE).  She made her Off-Broadway debut at the 2019 New York Musical Festival in (Flying Lessons). Most recent directorial credits include: Ink & Paint (Winter Park Playhouse's Florida Festival of New Musicals), Beetlejuice Jr. (Players by the Sea), The Bikinis (Winter Park Playhouse), Voices of Art (Artistic Journeys International for the Mandela Bay Arts Festival in South Africa). Desiree also serves on the Central Florida Liaison Committee, the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee, and the WDW Negotiation Action Committee for Actors' Equity Association. She would love to thank her family for their endless support. Follow her - IG: @brdwyheart | Linktr.eehttps://linktr.ee/bookdesmontes

    *Denotes member of AEA

  • Justin Adams

    MUSIC DIRECTOR/KEYS

    Justin is a pianist, music director, and educator whose journey has taken them across the country, and now lives and works in Central Florida. Notable piano credits include Kinky Boots (Orlando Shakespeare Theater), Beauty and the Beast (Garden Theatre), and When You Wish (Tuacahn Center for the Arts). Some favorite music directing credits include Mary Poppins (Millbrook Playhouse) and Forever Plaid (Thunder Bay Theatre). Justin currently serves as director of choirs at Westridge Middle School in Orlando. Justin holds a Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Florida. Justin would like to thank his husband, Joshua Gallagher, for their support and love.

  • Ashlyn Bigley

    CHOREOGRAPHER/FIGHT DIRECTOR

    Ashlyn is thrilled to join the creative team as the choreographer for this production. This show pushed her outside her usual musical theatre style and challenged her in all the best ways. She’s incredibly proud of the hard work poured into this process—both hers and the amazing cast's. You may have seen Ashlyn onstage over the past decade at various Central Florida dinner theatres, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (Fiends, Christmas Celebration), the Walt Disney World Resort (Festival of Fantasy Parade, and more), and currently at Universal Orlando Resort (Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees). Favorite theatre credits include The Last Five Years (Cathy, Osceola Arts) and A Chorus Line (Cassie/Choreographer, Celebration Theatre Co). Special thanks to Desi for believing in Ashlyn to help bring her vision to life. I am truly grateful. Get ready to rock—and enjoy the show! instagram:@aebigley

  • Zoe Brown

    STAGE MANAGER

    Zoe has been actively involved in the performance arts from the age 8 years old and truly has never looked back since. Although starting out as a performer, it didn't take long before the interest of behind the scenes work was peaked for her. She has been working at TWE since their '23 season as a stage manager and teaching artists. She would like to say a special thanks to Marshall, her partner for all of their support.

  • Makenzie Roberts

    ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER

    Makenzie Roberts is thrilled to be able to work with such an amazing creative team and cast. She wants to thank Zoe Brown (stage manager) for being an amazing mentor during this process. She hopes you enjoy the show!!

  • Maria Tew

    COSTUMER

    Maria Tew is thrilled to costume another production at Theater West End. Her love of sewing and creating started at a young age that began with lessons from her grandmother and an inherited craftiness gene from her father. Maria would like to thank her family for their help (Ana) and support (Clay, Braeden, and Nana) and to Desiree and Theater West End for the opportunity. Rock on!

  • Samuel Finken

    LIGHTING DESIGNER

    Samuel has made a career of telling stories through technical theatre. He freelances in the Central Florida area and is the Technical Director at Daytona State College. He is thankful for his faith and his family - Heather, Hailey and Gracie.

  • Ta'ryus Wilkinson

    SET CONSTRUCTION

    Ty is very excited for you to be here he thinks this show is very fun. Also he hopes you dig the set cause he put a lot of it together with the help of tommy bass from a few shows ago. anyways back to the topic enjoy :p

  • Nate Chivers

    GUITAR 1

    Nate Chivers is Composer, Arranger & Guitarist based in Central Florida. Adept at many musical styles, he has performed at various in Orlando like Timucua and the Dr.Phillips Center, and can be found in pit orchestras at places like West End Theater, Rollins College, and Osceola Center for the Arts. As a composer and arranger, he has worked with Mudita America, Central Florida Community Arts, CF2, Sono Ensemble, Manchester Video Game Orchestra amongst many others. He also recently received an honorable mention by the Microtonal Guitar Institute for their 9th Annual Composition Competition. His main field of interest is in Contemporary Classical Composition. He holds a PhD in Composition from the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, UK and currently teaches at Valencia College.

  • Aaron Lingelbach

    GUITAR 2

    Aaron has been rocking around Central Florida for the past 20 years! An alumni of the UCF School of Performing Arts, Aaron holds both bachelor and masters degrees in Music Performance with a focus on classical guitar. Aaron is also an esteemed educator, having taught guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, and ukulele to hundreds of students. He has taken his music everywhere from the great dive bars in Orlando to the Las Vegas Strip, where he held two residencies at the Ol Red. Aaron is a regular in the pit here at Theater West End and is excited to be back for another amazing performance!

  • Dylan Rostin

    BASS

    Dylan Rostin is an active musician and private music instructor based in Orlando, Florida. He picked up his first instrument at just six years old, and since then has seen nearly two decades of performing experience. Dylan joined the Orlando music scene in 2018 to pursue a cello performance degree at UCF. On top of his cello studies, Dylan is an avid guitar and bass player. He quickly began looking for playing opportunities after establishing himself in the UCF cello studio. Across the three instruments came countless gigs - notable venues played include Theater West End, The Annie Russell Theatre, The Athens Theatre, The Bob Carr Theatre, The Timucua Arts Foundation, and all three stages at The Dr. Phillips Center. Rock of Ages will be the fourth show he’s put on with West End post-graduation, and he’s ecstatic to be a part of such an amazing project to close out the summer!

  • Zane Adams

    DRUMS

    Zane Adams is a drummer and musician based in Central Florida. Born in Melbourne, FL, he is currently a senior at the University of Central Florida, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance. Specializing in drum set, Zane brings versatility, precision, and energy to every performance. He is excited to be part of this production and grateful for the opportunity to contribute his passion for live music to the stage.

A brief history lesson on the origin of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Rock and roll, in its essence, embodies rebellion, passion, and freedom. Much like the Blues, from which Rock and Roll was influenced by and originated, it often highlights its power to express emotions, challenge norms, and unite people through shared experience.


"If you don't know the blues... there's no point in picking up the guitar and playing rock and roll or any other form of popular music.” - Keith Richards (Guitarist, singer, songwriter, record producer, and a founding member of the Rolling Stones)

In a society that historically thrives on the erasure of the innovations and contributions of the Black community, it is crucial to honor the monumental contributions of Black musicians to the genre of rock and roll—a genre that owes its very essence and vitality to the creativity, innovation, and enduring influence of Black artists. Delving deeper into the roots of rock and roll, we highlight the Black musicians whose artistry laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most dynamic and influential musical movements in history. 

Chuck BerryThe Father of Rock and RolL

Chuck Berry’s impact on rock and roll cannot be overstated. His storytelling prowess, combined with his innovative guitar techniques, set the stage for what rock and roll would become. Hits like “Johnny B. Goode” are more than just songs; they’re narratives that resonate with themes of aspiration and resilience, speaking to audiences across generations. Berry’s performances were not just concerts, they were electrifying experiences that drew audiences into the heart of rock and roll. His ability to engage with his audience, coupled with his masterful guitar playing, made him a central figure in the rock and roll narrative. Adding to his legacy, Berry’s influence extended beyond his music to his dynamic performance style, which would become a hallmark of rock and roll. His duck walk became an iconic move, emulated by countless artists who sought to capture the energy and excitement that Berry brought to the stage. His songwriting, infused with wit and insight, provided a template for rock music that was both entertaining and reflective of the human condition. 

Little RichardThe Architect of Rock

Little Richard’s contributions to rock and roll are monumental, embodying the essence of the genre with his dynamic vocal range and piano skills. Songs like “Tutti Frutti” not only charted new musical territory but also broke societal norms, challenging the status quo and opening discussions on race, sexuality, and identity within the context of popular music. His unabashed flamboyance and energetic performances challenged the conservative norms of the time, making him a pioneering figure in the push for greater acceptance and inclusivity in music and beyond. Little Richard’s influence goes beyond his music; he was a trailblazer for artists who didn’t fit the conventional mold, paving the way for future generations to express their identities freely. His indomitable spirit and groundbreaking persona challenged the music industry to broaden its horizons and embrace diversity, setting the stage for the eclectic and inclusive nature of modern rock music. 

Sister Rosetta TharpeThe Godmother of Rock and Roll

Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s role in the inception of rock and roll is a testament to her visionary approach to music. Her blending of gospel with electric guitar riffs was revolutionary, creating a sound that was both spiritually uplifting and rhythmically groundbreaking. Tharpe’s influence extended beyond her own performances, as she mentored and inspired future rock legends, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the music community and the shared lineage of rock and roll. Her 1944 hit “Strange Things Happening Every Day” is often cited as one of the first rock and roll records, showcasing her ahead-of-her-time talent and innovation. Tharpe’s legacy is a beacon for the transformative power of music, illustrating how the fusion of genres can create new pathways for artistic expression. Her courage to innovate within the gospel genre, introducing elements that would become staples of rock and roll, showcases the importance of artistic evolution and cross-genre experimentation. 

Jimi HendrixThe Guitar Hero

Jimi Hendrix was a force of nature, redefining what could be achieved with the electric guitar. His experimental approach to music, incorporating feedback, distortion, and wah-wah effects, pushed the boundaries of rock music and influenced the development of several music genres. Hendrix’s performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, where he famously set his guitar on fire, symbolized his explosive impact on the rock scene—a blend of artistry, showmanship, and musical genius that has seldom been matched. Beyond his technical prowess and onstage charisma, Hendrix’s compositions were complex and innovative, blending blues, rock, and psychedelia into a unique sound that remains influential to this day. His commitment to pushing the limits of his instrument and his music speaks to the heart of rock and roll: innovation, emotion, and the relentless pursuit of artistic freedom. 

The Lasting Legacy
The stories of these pioneering artists underscore the rich, diverse roots of rock and roll, highlighting how Black musicians have been instrumental in shaping its sound and spirit. Their legacy is not just in their recordings but in the paths they paved for future generations of musicians across all genres. 

Director’s Note

“Willkommen, Bienvenue, Nanunanu!" Whether this music is familiar or brand new to you, the energy of this show is electric, and I'm excited for this audience to experience the rush of classic rock hits brought to life on the TWE stage! Rock of Ages is a celebration of nostalgia, love, and the power of rock ‘n’ roll. While this production is known best for its humor, energetic performances, and use of beloved 80s rock anthems, it also carries several underlying messages and themes surrounding; Social commentary and urban development: raising questions about the preservation of unique artistic communities and the homogenization of urban spaces under the guise of "economic development".

My desire is for audiences to leave the theater uplifted, cheerful, inspired & hopeful. My call-to-action is for audiences to also leave with the knowledge that art imitates life and to acknowledge and understand the underlying messages within the story. How do they apply to you? How do they apply to your neighbor? How much or how little has changed from the 1980's to 2025?

In all things, yes, even the campy shows filled with satirical & crude humor, there are lessons to be learned, history to be taught, personal connections to be made, empathy and compassion to be gained, and opportunities to look inward and ask ourselves "What are the lessons I have learned?" "What am I taking away?" "What will I do with what I have learned?"

With that, I encourage and invite you to go on this Journey with us. Clap and sing-along in your seats, laugh, cry, smile, reminisce and give yourself permission to let the music and messages move you.

Peace, Love & Long Live Rock and Roll!

The pursuit and reality of dreams: exploring the idealism of chasing dreams and the often harsh realities faced when those dreams don't materialize as expected, or when compromises are necessary. Authenticity vs. selling out: emphasizing the often internal clash between genuine artistic expression of the rock & entertainment scene and the pressures of commercialism and corporate influence. Also, seeking to move through life embracing who we are irregardless of the "societal norms" we've been so programmed to conform to. Love and relationships: exploring the complexities of relationships, including heartbreak, forgiveness, and the pursuit of true understanding & connection while demonstrating how love can be found & nurtured in unexpected places. Nostalgia and the power of music: highlighting how music can evoke powerful emotions and memories, acting as a backdrop and driving force for the narrative, and how music serves as a source of hope, escape, unity and community during times of turmoil and change.

Desiree Montes

DIRECTOR

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