by Jake Mizner

Sex, Drugs, and Rock N’ Roll.

Not the description you’d expect from a production at Encore Theatre, Tulare’s long-running historical theatre. But sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll is exactly what you’ll find in Rock of Ages, playing 9/29-10/14. Rock of Ages is a Tony-nominated musical packed with your favorite ‘80s rock anthems from bands including Twisted Sister, Journey, Foreigner, Bon Jovi, Poison, and Whitesnake, among other iconic bands. Based in a Los Angeles bar, the story has everything you’d want in a rock musical: the classic boy-meets-girl romance, a washed-up rock star, political protests, hilarious ensemble characters, and a constant breaking of the fourth wall. It is a legit ensemble cast, with every character getting chances to rock and make you laugh.

Cast of “Rock of Ages”

Rock of Ages is directed by mother-daughter duo Heather and Cameron Silva. Both have grown up on the Encore Stage and are excited to stage a different type of production at Encore Theatre. They brought together a cast of talented singers and dancers to bring their vision to life: sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll to the max. This includes a live band of incredible rock musicians, which makes the production feel like a legit rock concert. Audiences will laugh, jam out to their favorite rock anthems, and be blown away by the live music. From this description, you would be correct to assume this production has mature content. It is camp, loud, has language, and is unashamedly ‘80s rock.

The directors’ vision extends beyond the Encore stage. The entire theatre has been transformed into the Bourbon Room: the subject bar in the musical. The attention to detail is staggering; you’ll find fun details in every corner of the theatre. You can’t turn the theatre into a bar without selling alcohol! Encore is excited to announce that alcohol, including themed cocktails, will be available for purchase. You also don’t want to miss the chef-prepared food specials, both savory and sweet!

Encore’s decision to bring a new type of show to the South Valley is creating buzz: three performances have already sold out and opening weekend is close to being sold out as well. If you are looking for a night filled with incredible performances, huge laughs, loud ’80s rock, and a heartfelt story, Rock of Ages at Encore Theatre is for you. Performances are 9/29-10/14. Don’t wait, get your tickets at Encoretulare.org or call the theatre at 559-686-1300.

Check out more local entertainment articles in our Arts & Entertainment section. And don’t miss out on Mysteryrat’s Maze Podcast where we feature mystery stories read by local actors!