Westport's Rice College to rock with Rock of Ages this week

Rock of Ages (Teen Edition) is set in 1987, focusing on a pursuing actor, Shamie, (changed to a guy to fit the all boys musical), and a city boy called Drew wanting to rock and save the Sunset Strip. Shamie and Drew try to find friendship, and despite multiple challenges, try to pursue their dreams and strengthen their friendship, but some dreams are never meant to be! I interviewed Ms Coulon, TY coordinator at Rice College. This is what she had to say. 

“The musical is my favourite element of our TY Programme. Not only does it hit each student dimension but it is an incredibly worthwhile experience for all our students. So many shine both on and off the stage for those few weeks. I am already proud of each and every one of them and how far they have come since their early auditions in November.

We are also incredibly lucky to have two talented women, Aoife Carr Creaby (Musical Director) and Kathy Fahey (Music Director) who guide these young men along the way with their years of expertise with a variety of shows. I love working with them both as we all share the same vision, humour, enthusiasm and professionalism. Finding the right musical for an all boys cast is always a challenge. We went back and forth with it a lot! Aoife, Kathy and I wanted to make sure we had the right fit for everyone  and to show off everyone's many hidden talents. Now a week out from the show, it was all worth it! I genuinely can't wait for families, friends and everyone to come and see 'Rock of Ages'.

I just want everyone to enjoy the experience together, be there for each other and cherish these moments for years to come,” she said. I also caught up with some cast members and this  is what they wanted to share. Shane Cawley (brother): “I have really enjoyed this experience and have grown more confident because of this and TY as a whole.” Dan Lambert (Shamie):

“I had to step in late on and there was some pressure, but being with my friends and one I took inspiration from was a big help.” Eoghan Powell (Stacee Jaxx): “It was a good experience being with friends and to become what I needed to be to play the part.” James Kennedy (Hanz): “I think I was fairly glad that I did get cast in the role of the antagonist. Not many have the thought in mind to be the villain, I do think that the character is well suited for myself. German helps enough, especially with the accent. There was a certain character in mind that I had thought to be a structure for me.

If you have seen Inglorious Bastards by Quentin Tarantito, you might already know who I am referring to. The experience of being in it, on stage at all is enough. Just to be in a spotlight and eyes on ya can do wonders.” Rock of Ages (Teen Edition) will be performed in the Westport Town Hall on Tuesday, March 24, Wednesday, March 25 and Thursday, March 26 at 7pm (except for Thursday at 6pm due to the World Cup Qualifier game). Tickets are available online at  westportheatre.com or at the door on the night.

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