The KP’s Rock the Central Theatre with “Rock of Ages”
Date: Saturday 28th June 2025
Venue: Central Theatre, Chatham
Presented by: The Kentish Players
Directed by: Jimmy Marabello-Weighell
Musical Direction by: Siobhan Walls
Choreography by: Caroline Ferguson
A Night of 80s Nostalgia, Big Hair, and Even Bigger Performances!
On one of the hottest evenings of the year, the Kentish Players turned up the heat even more with their electric production of Rock of Ages. Set against a backdrop of neon lights, tight leather, and fist-pumping anthems, the audience was treated to a night of unfiltered 80s rock magic — all in the comfort of an air-conditioned theatre!
The story, built around classic 80s hits, follows a small-town girl and a city boy as they chase their dreams on the Hollywood Strip. It’s a tale of love, music, and resistance as the legendary Bourbon Room faces closure from ruthless German developers. With a live five-piece band on stage driving the sound, the energy never let up.
Cast & Creative Brilliance
From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear this production had talent in abundance:
- Ryan Cottee and Elizabeth Ellis were pitch-perfect as Drew and Sherri, delivering powerhouse vocals and heartfelt chemistry.
- Charlie Grant brought hilarity and charisma as fourth-wall-breaking narrator Lonny Barnett, paired beautifully with Glenn Ellis as the lovable Dennis Dupree.
- Ben Smyth brought the house down as over-the-top rocker Stacee Jaxx — a performance that was equal parts ridiculous and rockstar.
- Adam James was a true scene-stealer as the flamboyant and unforgettable Franz.
Every cast member brought life and individuality to their role, making the stage feel full of vibrant characters and outrageous 80s flair.
Creative Team & Production
Director Jimmy Marabello-Weighell led a brilliant team in crafting a slick, high-energy spectacle. Musical Director Siobhan Walls ensured every note rocked the room, while choreographer Caroline Ferguson delivered bold and polished dance numbers that echoed the era’s excess.
The cleverly designed set split between Bourbon Room grunge and city office glam, used lighting and screens to create smooth transitions and visual flair. Lighting was full throttle — perfect for the theme, even if not for the faint of eye! Costumes hit the 80s vibe hard, with big hair, tight jeans, and glam rock all around.
Final Thoughts
With a mix of laugh-out-loud moments, passionate performances, and enough rock anthems to shake the roof off the Central Theatre, The Kentish Players’ Rock of Ages was a night to remember. It may not take itself too seriously — but that’s exactly why it works.
A huge congratulations to the entire cast and crew for pulling off such a phenomenal show. KP, you rocked it.