The Official Rock Of Ages Calendars! Perfect Holiday Gifts.

In case you havent heard, there are two new ROA Calendars available. The Women of Rock Of Ages and the all new and improved Men Of Rock Of Ages (updated with bigger, better and more pictures!)

Grace yr walls, office or fridge with the sexy staffers* of Dupree's Bourbon Room and The Venus Strip, uh, Gentlemens Club. (*Some would say more funny than sexy, but you decide...)

Limited editions of 500 mens and 500 womens, so consider these collector's items and order now!

You can get 1 for $40 ($3.50 shipping) or get both the boys and girls versions together for $65 (4.50 shipping).

All proceeds from these calendars goes to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

Buy them here

or email

roacalendars@gmail.com

Toronto ROA Tickets on Sale!!!!

Rock on, eh? The Canadian premiere of Broadway's 1980s-set musical Rock of Ages goes on sale 12:30 PM Nov. 27 with a special offer at Toronto's Royal Alexandra Theatre. At that time, the first 200 tickets to the first performance will be sold for $19.87 each.Performances begin April 20, 2010, at the Royal Alex at 260 King St West). Regular ticket sales begin 9 AM Nov. 28.

Theatregoers coming to the $19.87 tickets are encouraged to raid their closets for their old '80s garb — jelly shoes, acid-wash jeans, leg-warmers and Izod shirts — and wear it to the box office event on Friday.

The musical that robs the trunk of '80s rock writers is set in 1987 on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles.

Tickets are priced from $28 to $99 and will be available at (416) 872-1212 or (800) 461-3333, or online at www.mirvish.com.

Delicious Arby's

Hmm, so yr an ROA fan and live in NYC and think to yrself, "where can I get some of that delicious Arby's they speak of?" The answer is, well soon anyway, almost anywhere.

Acording to this article in the Daily News, Arby's is opening 40 shops around New York City so whether its truly delicious or not, you will soon have you snacking opportunity. The first store goes into the former historic Downtown Brooklyn Gage & Tollner's Restaurant (weird choice that) imminently.

Brooks Atkinson

Read all about the man whose theater houses the hilarious antics of ROA 6 nights a week.

Brooks Atkinson

"Men of Rock of Ages" Calendar

The humble male actors of Rock Of Ages The Musical have just published a charity calendar of them displaying their "talents".

Men Of Rock Of Ages, The Musical, The Calendar. (click the link for more info)

Your $40 gets you 12 big, high dynamic range photos of the sexilicious ROA dudes and supports Broadway Cares/Equity fights AIDS.

(Now lets hope the ROA girls have one coming as well!)

Rock of Ages Cast Members Staying on the Sunset Strip Through 2010!

Hey, Rockers!

Wanted you guys to be some of the first to hear that it is official - several members of the "Rock of Ages" cast are joining star Constantine Maroulis (Drew) in staying with the Broadway production through the summer of 2010.

Joining Constantine through summer 2010 are James Carpinello (Stacee Jaxx), Adam Dannheisser (Dennis), Mitchell Jarvis (Lonny), Michele Mais (Justice), and Lauren Molina (Regina). Paul Schoeffler, currently on leave, returns Monday, October 26 and will also be with the show through summer 2010. Don Stephenson is playing the role of “Hertz” until Mr. Schoeffler returns. As previously announced, Kerry Butler will join the cast for six months as “Sherrie” on Monday, September 21, 2009.

Current cast members Savannah Wise (Sherrie) and Wesley Taylor (Franz) will be leaving "Rock of Ages" after the 7pm performance on Sunday, September 13th. Savannah is joining the cast of the "Ragtime" revival on Broadway (opening later this fall) while Wesley is headed to Chicago for the pre-Broadway run of "The Addams Family" (expected to open on Broadway next April).

Rock on, everyone!

Miss Lizzy

Welcome to Rock of Ages, Kerry Butler!

Hey, Rockers!

Fresh of the press from Rock of Ages headquarters in the back of the Venus Club dressing room, we have an announcement of the new Sherrie! (Note: current "Sherrie" Savannah Wise is leaving the production on September 13th to join the revival of "Ragtime", set for a fall opening on Broadway).

TONY AWARD NOMINEE
KERRY BUTLER
TO STAR AS “SHERRIE”
IN THE SMASH HIT MUSICAL

FOR SIX MONTH LIMITED ENGAGEMENT

Tony Award nominated Broadway star, Kerry Butler (Xanadu, Hairspray) will star in the five-time Tony nominated hit musical, ROCK OF AGES at Broadway’s Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 West 47th Street) as “Sherrie” beginning Monday, September 21, 2009 for a six month limited engagement for six performances a week. The “Sherrie” understudy will play the role during both performances on Sundays. Constantine Maroulis continues his Tony Award Nominated performance staring in the show as “Drew”.

Kerry Butler most recently starred on Broadway, and received Tony Award and Drama League Award nominations for her critically acclaimed role as ‘Kira” in Xanadu. A versatile musical theatre comedienne, Ms. Butler has made an indelible mark on Broadway playing such characters as Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors (Outer Critics Circle Award nom.), the original “Penny” in Hairspray (Clarence Derwent Award; Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle noms.), “Belle” in Beauty and the Beast (Belle), “Eponine” in Les Misérables and “Ms. Jones” in Blood Brothers. Off Broadway, she originated the roles of “Shelley” in Bat Boy: The Musical, “Maddy” in Prodigal, “Isabelle” in Miracle Brothers and “DeeDee” in the musical The Opposite of Sex.
Kerry has also made numerous television appearances which include “Lipstick Jungle”, “Cupid”, CBS’s “Second Honeymoon” (with Roma Downey), “Another World,” “Sesame Street,” "Hometown” and “One Life to Live” (Claudia Reston). She recently recorded her first solo CD, Faith, Trust and Pixie Dust, on PS Classics and performed as “Brenda” in the 2009 world premiere of the musical “Catch Me If You Can” this summer in Seattle.

“Kerry is one of my favorite Broadway performers and I cannot tell you how lucky we feel to have her,” says lead producer Carl Levin. "She's funny, she's beautiful, and most importantly she can sing like a rock star."

Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com/ 212-307-4100 or in person at The Brooks Atkinson Box Office (256 West 47th Street).

The performance schedule is Monday at 8pm, Tuesday at 7pm, Thursday at 8pm, Friday
at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm & 8pm and Sunday at 2pm & 7pm.

Rock on and help us welcome the newest Sherrie beginning late next month. Hells, yeah!

Miss Lizzy

News Updates from Rock of Ages!

What's up, rockers!?!?!

Sorry it has been quiet here on the “Strip” but we’re going to make up for it now with a tour-bus-sized batch of Rock of Ages news for you!

Upcoming Events:

1. The Rock of Ages Cruise on Wednesday, August 26^th! Per the official Rock of Ages page on Facebook, here are the details: The Circle Line Cruise will set sail at 7:00pm and return at 9:30pm. Boarding begins at 6:30pm. VJ Randy Esulto will be mixing your favorite 80s music videos and DJ Twist will be spinning your favorite 80s hits! You can win tickets to ROCK OF AGES on Broadway & the ROCK OF AGES Original Broadway Cast Recording CD! Tickets are $40 per person and include boat ticket, beer (courtesy of Heartland Brewery) wine (courtesy of Casa De Vinos) and soda. A cash bar will also be available. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres will be provided by B. Smith's Restaurant. You must be 21 years-old! Use Code NYCE and SAVE $5!! Go to the Circle Line's web site to order your tickets now for a rockin’ night on the Hudson! And FYI, cast members will be joining in on the fun on the water, but specific names have not been released at this time.

2. Rock of Ages star Constantine Maroulis will be doing two concerts at Joe’s Pub in New York City this fall, on Wednesday September 23^rd and Wednesday October 14^th. Tickets for “A Night At the Rock Show” are selling super-fast so buy them now on the Joe’s Pub web site.

3. The "Rock of Ages" After-Party at The China Club NYC has briefly gone on hiatus. It will be returning bigger and better in September with a new night (Friday!!!) and all kinds of kick-ass fun! The grand re-launch will be Friday, September 11^th with a performance by January Jane (for those who attended the opening night party for Rock of Ages on Broadway, you know how hard these guys rock!)


Cast Announcements:

Welcome to two new members of the ROA family…Don Stephenson and Eric Sciotto!

Don Stephenson will be portraying the scourge of the Sunset Strip, the destined demolisher of Dupree’s, “Hertz Kleinman” while Paul Schoeffler is temporarily relocating to the fictional town of Beaumont Sur Mer (via Philadelphia, PA), portraying the charming cad "Lawrence Jamieson" in the Walnut Street Theater production of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” (a role made famous in film by Michael Caine and on Broadway by John Lithgow). Paul will be returning to Rock of Ages beginning October 26^th.

Eric Sciotto is the newest super-Swing in the ROA family and with lots of vacations and such over the summer and fall, I’m sure there will be lots of chances to enjoy his work! He hit the ground running last night (Monday, August 17) playing Joey Primo in what is now being referred to as the Epic Understudy Festival (6 understudies and 2 debuts in one performance)!

Welcome to both and break a leg!

Other Items of Interest:

- From Hal Leonard Publishing, the Piano/Vocal Song Book for “Rock of Ages” has been released. If you are in the NYC area, Colony Music at Broadway and 49^th Street is the easiest place to pick it up. Outside of NYC, I’d recommend the Hal Leonard website.

- Help the folks at the official Rock of Ages web site upgrade their email blasts known as the Bouron Room News! The powers that be want input on jazzing up the graphics on the messages sent out to fans just like you… go to the official web site for more details!


Whew! Thanks for sticking around to the end of this message. Hope you all are having a rockin’ summer and I’ll see you in The Bourbon Room!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

CORRECTION to Rock of Ages' Appearance on "The View"

Hey Rockers!

I was told last night by one of the producers of "Rock of Ages" that the cast performance will be pre-taped for broadcast (most likely WITHOUT an audience) this coming Monday (the 27th) and will be broadcast on Friday, July 31st.

Wanted to make sure everyone had the correct information! :)

So, kick off next weekend with a performance from the ROA cast on "The View" next Friday, July 31st (check your local listings for broadcast time)!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages News from the Bourbon Room!

Hey, Rockers!

Just thought I'd check in with a few odds and ends from the "Rock of Ages" universe!

Upcoming Appearances:

Wednesday, July 22 - Constantine and the cast of "Rock of Ages" will be making a guest performance with the band ZO2 (from IFC's hit show Z-Rock) at the Mercury Lounge (217 East Houston Street New York, NY - 212-260-4700) @ 9:30 pm. 21+ please - doors open at 7:30pm.

Thursday, July 23 - Broadway in Bryant Park - Presented by New York radio's 106.7 Lite FM, the free midday events feature musical performances by Broadway and Off-Broadway shows at the midtown greenery, approximately 12:30-1:30 PM. This week's performances will include the casts of Mary Poppins, Rock of Ages, Vanities and Next to Normal.

Tuesday, July 28 - Constantine will be performing a song from "Rock of Ages" on ABC's "The View" with Dee Snider of Twisted Sister!

Cast News:

- Welcome to new swing cast member Becca Tobin! We hope to have an "ROA Class of 2009" interview with Becca in the near future.

- "Rock of Ages" swing cast member Tad Wilson has announced to TCOTS that he will be leaving "Rock of Ages" in the fall and taking a role in the new musical "Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure". As a fan favorite and an all-around very cool guy, we wish Tad the very best with this new role and look forward to seeing this on Broadway soon!

- "Rock of Ages" cast member Savannah Wise has launched a Fan Page on Facebook. Join the page and show your support for our new "Sherrie Christian"!

Internet Stuff:
- I was interviewed over the weekend by Kay and Abi of the Internet podcast "Exposed!" and talked about ROA, The After-Party, and 80's rock in general. If you'd like to download the broadcast, go to this link and enjoy!

- Join the Facebook Fan Page for "The China Club NYC" and you'll always be the first to get details on each week's Rock of Ages After-Party! Click here to sign up! (And don't forget - tonight's special guest at the After-Party is former Journey lead singer Steve Augeri!

That's all for now, party people!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

This Week's Special Guest at the "Rock of Ages After-Party" at The China Club...

...is none other than former Journey lead singer STEVE AUGERI!!!!

That's right, rockers...if you thought last week's "Rock of Ages" After-Party at The China Club NYC was hot (with legends Twisted Sister in the house), then don't stop believin'!

Along with live performances by Heartless (Heart tribute band), Classic Nation (80's tribute band) and Evolution (THE #1 Journey tribute band!), awesome drink specials from our sponsors at Absolut Vodka, and prize giveaways, Steve Augeri will be our special guest and who knows...he may just jam on a few Journey classics with Evolution!

KILLER!

So remember, for a $10 cover charge ($5 with a ticket stub from that night's "Rock of Ages"), you can join us at The China Club NYC (next door to the Brooks Atkinson Theater, the home of ROA, on West 47th Street) next Tuesday night, July 21st for a kick-ass night of rock and roll!

The Rock of Ages After-Party at The China Club - the new "temple of rock and roll kick-assery!"

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

It is OFFICIAL! Savannah Wise is the new "Sherrie" in "Rock of Ages"!

Hey, Rockers,

It is official!!! Direct from The Powers That Be...

Producers of the five-time Tony Award nominated hit musical, ROCK OF AGES announced today that Savannah Wise will officially take over the role of Sherrie, effective immediately. After having understudied the role since performances began on Broadway on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at Broadway's Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 West 47th Street), Ms. Wise will star opposite Tony Award nominee Constantine Maroulis.

Her former theatre credits include Broadway/ Off-Broadway/Nat'l tour: Les Misérables, Rock of Ages off-Broadway, Disney's High School Musical. Regional: Happy Days (Joanie), Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Annie Get Your Gun (Winnie Tate). She has also appeared as a TV guest star on "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" and "Rescue Me." Ms. Wise is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.

"It is that rare and fortunate instance in show business where it becomes necessary for the understudy to step into the role and she exceeds your wildest expectations," says Matt Weaver, lead producer.

In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small-town girl met a big-city dreamer - and in L.A.'s most legendary rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80's. It's ROCK OF AGES, a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake, and many more. Don't miss this awesomely good time where big hair meets big dreams and the result totally wails. The show is written by Chris D'Arienzo (writer and director of the upcoming film Barry Munday), directed by Kristin Hanggi (Bare, Pussycat Dolls on the Sunset Strip) and choreographed by Kelly Devine (Jersey Boys - Associate Choreographer).

ROCK OF AGES was nominated for Five 2009 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, Best Actor in a Musical (Constantine Maroulis), Best Direction of a Musical, Best Costume Design of a Musical, and Best Sound Design of a Musical. Additionally, Wesley Taylor won a 2009 Theatre World Award for his portrayal of "Franz." Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com/ 212-307-4100 or in person at The Brooks Atkinson Box Office (256 W. 47th Street).

Rock on and break a leg, Savannah!

"Rock of Ages" After Party at The China Club Kicking off July 14th with TWISTED SISTER!!!!

Hey, Rockers...Hold on to your Spandex!

The New York Times calls the Tony-nominated musical "Rock Of Ages" 'Impossible to resist" and Entertainment Weekly says it's "More fun than [a musical] has any right to be." But that’s nothing!

Every Tuesday night, "Rock Of Ages" and The China Club invite you to party like a rock star, hang with the cast and special guests after the show, featuring live music!

This Tuesday, July 14th, join Twisted Sister's Dee Snider, Jay Jay French, Mark "The Animal" Mendoza, AJ Pero and Eddie Ojeda in celebrating the 25th Anniversary of their iconic release, "Stay Hungry!"

We will also be celebrating the highly-anticipated CD release of the Original Broadway Cast Recording of "Rock Of Ages"!!!!

Live Music starts at 6:30 with performances by The Nerds and EVOLUTION, the Best Journey Tribute Band in the country!!

The China Club is located right next door to the Home of "Rock Of Ages" at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 268 West 47th Street, every Tuesday night.

$10 at the door or $5 cover with your "Rock Of Ages" ticket stub from Tuesday night's show.

Doors Open at 5:30PM for the after work and pre-theater crowd.

COME ROCK LIKE IT WAS THE '80'S .........AND GET SOME ABSOLUT DRINKS SPECIALLY PRICED LIKE THE '80'S.

Must be 21 or over to Rock!!!

For More Information go to, www.chinaclubnyc.com, or www.rockofagesmusical.com OR Call The China Club at 212.398.3800

Tuesdays Will Never Be The Same!!!

SEE YOU THERE!!!!!!!!!

Your After-Party Hostess,

Miss Lizzy

She took the midnight train...

It's official. Amy Spanger, after a few weeks resting her voice from the past few months of sold out face melting performances as leading lady Sherrie Christian, has announced she is leaving the show effective now. She cites "personal reasons" for bowing out, though we trust the decision will be positive for her and the time she spent with the cast will be a fond memory for her and all of us as well who enjoyed her work. She brought a high level of killer talent to the show - singing, dancing and especially comic acting - and was super sweet and adorable to boot.

Savannah Wise has been playing the role of Sherri in the interim and will continue, we understand, until the producers find a suitable replacement. While we enjoy Savannah quite a lot as "Waitress #1" her Sherrie is a fabulous upgrade and not to be missed! Go Sav!

new promo video!

"Rock of Ages" to Set Air Guitar Guinness World Record July 1st!

IT’S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN FOR
‘ROCK’ TO HIT GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS WITH THEIR BEST SHOT!
WILL IT BE HIGH ENOUGH?


GUINNESS WORLD RECORD
FOR LARGEST AIR GUITAR ENSEMBLE
TO BE ATTEMPTED ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 1st
IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE MATINEE PERFORMANCE (4:30PM)

AT THE BROOKS ATKINSON THEATRE, 256 W. 47th STREET

AUDIENCE, CAST & CREW TO BE INSTRUCTED BY
2007 NATIONAL AIR GUITAR CHAMPION “WILLIAM OCEAN”

Five-time Tony Award Nominated smash hit musical, ROCK OF AGES, along with US Air Guitar (the official air guitar association of the United States who is responsible for operating the US Air Guitar Championships) will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for Largest Air Guitar Ensemble immediately following the matinee performance on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 (@ 4:30pm) at The Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 W. 47th Street.

WHO: Cast & crew of ROCK OF AGES, including Tony Award Nominee Constantine Maroulis, 2007 National Air Guitar Champion Andrew "William Ocean" Litz, the matinee audience and fans.

WHAT: ROCK OF AGES and US Air Guitar attempt to break the Guinness World Record for Largest Air Guitar Ensemble, which is currently at 440.
There will also be talk back with the cast and awesome giveaways* while a Guinness World Records adjudicator tabulates the ballots

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2009
4:30PM – William Ocean takes the stage to teach the audience, cast & crew

how to play the air guitar.

5:30PM – End of event.

For fans who cannot attend the matinee performance but would like to be a part of the record-breaking history, visit: www.rockofagesmusical.com/worldrecord.php for more information. The event will also unfold LIVE on Ustream.tv (http://www.ustream.tv/) and ROCK OF AGES will be Twittering as it happens! Follow us at www.twitter.com/rockofages.

Awesome Group Seating Deals for "Rock of Ages"!

Hey, Rockers!

Celebrating a friend's birthday? What about a Friday night out with co-workers to blow off some steam? High school or college reunion? Or do you just have a big family?

Well then, what better way to celebrate than with a kickass trip to the Sunset Strip!?!!?!?

We'd like to re-introduce you to a friend of The Cry of the Strip and "Rock of Ages", Steve Litwitz, who is organizing group sales for the hottest show on the Great White(snake) Way! Steve's 'with the band,' as they say in rock and roll, so he's got access to killer seating for your get-together at really rad prices!

Email him at SteveLitwitz@gmail.com (groups of 12 or more, please) and he'll be totally stoked to hook you up with terrific pricing for your rockin' celebration!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Announcing...The "Rock of Ages After-Party at The China Club"!

Hey, Rockers!

Have you ever wanted to…

…keep the party going after the last piece of confetti falls at a performance of “Rock of Ages”?

…relive the rock and roll heyday of the superclubs of New York City in the 1980’s?

…party with the cast of Broadway’s most awesome musical, digging killer drink specials and listening to mind-blowing live music?

Well, listen up, my babies! Your wishes have come true…presented by Absolut Vodka, WPLJ, “Rock of Ages”, The China Club, and Capstone Music & Entertainment, we proudly announce…

The “Rock of Ages" After-Party at The China Club!

Every Tuesday night starting July 14th, come party with the cast from “Rock of Ages” and Special Invited Guests at the legendary China Club (next door to the Brooks Atkinson Theater).

And wait, it gets even better…go see “Rock of Ages” at 7PM on Tuesday then bring your ticket next door to The China Club and get in for $5, where you can meet up with the cast after the show for live music from the 80’s and featuring special guest performers.

If you can’t get in to see “Rock of Ages” though, don’t worry (be happy)! Come over to The China Club anyway for a $10 cover and still party with the cast and special guests.

Doors open at 5PM and the party will go on to 2AM and will be hosted by “The Cry of The Strip”’s own Miss Lizzy (hey, that’s me!).

Rock on and we’ll see you soon!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages on the Tony Awards!

Hey, Rockers!

Would we not be your one stop shop for the two BIGGEST, LOUDEST, MOST KICKASS production numbers at last night's Tony Awards? Come on!

Enjoy!

Opening Number With Special Guests Poison



"Rock of Ages" Production Number



Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" Star Constantine Maroulis on the "Today Show" - VIDEO!

Hey, Rockers!

Just thought we'd share with you a terrific segment "Rock of Ages" star and Tony nominee Constantine Maroulis did on NBC's "Today Show" this morning as part of their "Everyone Has a Story" series.

Enjoy and ROCK ON!

Miss Lizzy

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

ROA-Inspired Tony Awards Drinking Game!

Hey, Rockers!

Now, with five Tony Award nominations for "Rock of Ages", we know all of you out here on "The Strip" are going to be tuning in to see the big show on CBS on Sunday night, June 7th.

We came across this interesting Tony Awards drinking game from some friends of ours online and we wanted to share it with all of you...but PLEASE remember...drink responsibly, be safe, and NEVER...EVER...drink and drive. That would NOT be rad!

full size printable pdf version here

Rock on as we cheer on "Rock of Ages" at the Tony Awards!!!

Miss Lizzy

Amy, Joel and Constantine on the CBS Tony Preview Show

Amy and Constantine and Joel on guitar doing High Enough on the CBS Tony Awards Preview show

NY Times interviews Constantine

Constantine interview. Read It Here!.
(may require a free sign up to the NYTImes online edition)

Söndheim! - Info needed!

The Producers of ROA are searching for information on an 80's band called SÖNDHEIM. They apparently made heavy rock cover versions of Broadway show tunes. If you know any information about this band please write to us immediately at info@thecryofthestrip.com.

Sondheim-I Am What I Am (from La Cage Aux Folles (1987)

Wesley Taylor - From "Rock of Ages" to "The Addams Family"

Hey, Rockers!

I hope you guys don’t mind indulging your dramatic conjurer here at TCOTS for a moment…

When an actor who has originated a role in a hit show decides to leave, there’s always some sadness, as fans have taken that actor and the character he or she portrays to heart. The role and actor are indelibly joined as one in the show’s history. But when they leave for the purpose of getting to create yet another role in another new show, well, then you have to temper your sadness with pride, as you know that others are seeing in that actor the talent that the producers of your favorite show did.

As many theater news outlets reported earlier this month, a new musical based on “The Addams Family” will be making its world premiere in Chicago on November 12, 2009, with a Broadway opening in April of 2010. “Rock of Ages” own Wesley Taylor will be joining this cast as 'Lucas Beineke,' whose relationship with 'Wednesday Addams' (played by Krysta Rodriguez, most recently of "In The Heights") will be the focal point of the plot. Other Broadway luminaries in this cast include Nathan Lane as 'Gomez', Bebe Neuwirth as 'Morticia', and the duo of Terrence Mann and Carolee Carmello as Lucas’ parents.

Wesley’s last performance in “Rock of Ages” will be the 7pm show on Sunday, September 13th and tickets are available through Ticketmaster or at the Brooks Atkinson box office.

Break a leg and do us all on the Sunset Strip proud, Wes!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages - Today Show Poster Contest Winners!

Hey, Rockers!

Hope you all got a chance to see the cast of "Rock of Ages" tear it up on NBC's Today Show yesterday morning (they performed three numbers - "Don't Stop Believin'", "High Enough" and "Here I Go Again" - see the video in the previous blog item!) in front of an enthusiastic, rockin' crowd on Memorial Day.

The enthusiasm for the show was also expressed in artwork, through the many terrific entries in the "Rock of Ages - Today Show Poster Contest" and the powers-that-be have decided that along with a winner of two tickets to an upcoming performance of "Rock of Ages", there are two runners-up who will each win a kickass prize package from the ROA Merchandise Store.

First, the two runners-up...


1) "Setting Broadway on Fire"...Liz Woolf and her lighter poster!


2) "Character Study on the Sunset Strip" - portraits by Monica Simoes

The winning poster garnered praise from such "Rock of Ages" luminaries as director Kristin Hanggi and Associate Costume Designer Karl Ruckdeschel. With her "Marshall Stack / Dean Z Guitar" poster, the winner is Kay Koch!

Congratulations to these three artists on their rad artwork, and thank you to everyone for participating and making the Today Show Plaza ROCK yesterday morning!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Rock Of Ages on the Today Show

In case you missed it, here's the ROA cast on The Today Show, Memorial Day 2009 doing Here I Go Again, High Enough and Don't Stop Believin'.

Big Thanks to all the hardcore ROA fans who came to support, and big thanks to you at home too!

Rock of Ages - Fan Poster Contest at Monday's Today Show Broadcast!

Hey, Rockers!!!

For all of you headed to "The Today Show" on Monday morning, here's a chance to show your support of "Rock of Ages" on national TV AND possibly score some seats to the show!

We will be holding a fan-created poster contest during the broadcast - the most kickass sign in the crowd (to be judged by the cast and Today Show folks) will win a pair of tickets to a future Monday or Tuesday night performance of "Rock of Ages"!!

So get creative and we'll see you as we ROCK the ROCK on Monday!!!!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages - Appearing on TV...and IN THE STUDIO!

Hey, Rockers!

As you all know, "Rock of Ages" is EVERYWHERE!!! You can find the hottest show on the Great White(snake) Way on iTunes (pre-order the Original Broadway Cast Recording-to be released on June 2nd), on YouTube (including the now-famous ROA Productions videos - now up to Episode 8), and of course, on TV.

Now Visa and The Tony Awards are bringing a very special event to your local CBS affiliate, which WILL feature a performance from cast members of "Rock of Ages"! Here's a little more detail...

Credit: Tonys.org

"For the second year, the Tony Awards and Visa will join forces to produce a one-hour TV special that will celebrate the Broadway season and preview the awards. "Visa Signature Tony Awards Season Celebration" features performances from nominees and other stars of the 2008-2009 Broadway season. The show airs on WCBS in New York on Saturday, May 30 and on CBS affiliates in other cities between May 29 and June 6." [Ed. note: check your local listings]

And don't forget...the cast of "Rock of Ages" will be performing LIVE as part of the Toyota Concert Series on NBC's "Today Show" this coming Monday, May 25th. Come on down to Rockefeller Plaza as ROA becomes the first Broadway show in "Today" history to perform THREE songs in one broadcast!

I've saved the best bit for last, though...



Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages Cast Recording - EXCLUSIVE iTunes Pre-Sale NOW!!!

Hey, Rockers!!!

iTunes has kicked off an EXCLUSIVE pre-sale for the Original Broadway Cast Recording of "Rock of Ages"!!!!

If you have iTunes, please aim your browser here and be one of the first to rock out when it is released on June 2nd!!!

And if you need a visual to whet your appetite for the upcoming CD (release date TBD) as well...

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" Group Seating - Here's a Deal for You!

Hey, Rockers!

Celebrating a friend's birthday? What about a Friday night out with co-workers to blow off some steam? High school or college reunion? Or do you just have a big family?

Well then, what better way to celebrate than with a kickass trip to the Sunset Strip!?!!?!?

We'd like to introduce you to a friend of The Cry of the Strip and "Rock of Ages", Steve Litwitz, who is organizing group sales for the hottest show on the Great White(snake) Way! Email him at SteveLitwitz@gmail.com (groups of 8 or more, please) and he'll be totally stoked to hook you up with terrific pricing for your rockin' celebration!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Congratulations, Wesley Taylor!

Hey Rockers!

The winners of the 2008-2009 TheaterWorld Awards have been announced and "Rock of Ages" own Wesley Taylor has been recognized for his outstanding Broadway debut!

Way to go, "Franzie!"

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

FIRST LOOK! "Rock of Ages" Cast Album Cover Art!

Happy Friday, Rockers!

Our friends at RockofAgesMusical.com just sent us a cool little item that we wanted to share with everyone here on "The Strip."

(Actually, if you are on Twitter and have been following #rockofages, you've probably seen this already. If you're not following the official Tweet of ROA, do it NOW! Along with, of course, #tcots !)

Here is a sneak peek at the cover art for the upcoming Original Broadway Cast Recording of "Rock of Ages"!!!
As we reported earlier this week, the recording looks to be released on iTunes in mid-June, with a CD release to follow in early July. When we get exact dates, we'll let the world know!

And...make sure you sign up for the mailing list at the official site for information on how you can be one of the first to order the CD!

Have a ROCKIN' weekend!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages' Tad Wilson Kicks Off "Broadway Legs" for BC/EFA

Hey, Rockers!

“Rock of Ages” cast member Tad Wilson is spearheading what we hope will become a new theater tradition and would love for the fans to help!

Now, the theater community has had a time-honored phrase for wishing someone good luck –“Break a leg.” At a few of the recent Broadway openings, the casts of such shows as “Rock of Ages", “Next to Normal", "9 to 5" and "Waiting for Godot" have been presented with an artifical leg, signed by cast members and created for the occasion to ceremonially break before curtain.

“Broadway Legs” hopes to donate the signed legs to the silent auction at the Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS Grand Flea Market and Auction in late September, but – sorry about this joke, everyone – these legs cost an arm and a…well, you know.

Tad has acquired 10 “Rock of Ages” show posters signed by the entire Broadway cast and would like to give the fans here on The Cry of the Strip the first opportunity to purchase one for $50, with every penny going to purchase the materials for the project.

In essence…artificial limbs will be helping to save REAL lives. For information regarding the project or to reserve a poster for purchase (at the theater - cash only, please), please contact me at lizzy@thecryofthestrip.com

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" star James Carpinello at Seth's Broadway Chatterbox TONIGHT 5/7!

Hey, Rockers!

Just got word that "Rock of Ages" star James Carpinello ("Stacee Jaxx") will be the guest at Seth Rudetsky's weekly talk show "Seth's Broadway Chatterbox" tonight, May 7th.

Per Playbill.com, James will be bringing "Rock of Ages" guitarist David Gibbs with him to the Chatterbox and will be debuting a song cut out of the show, written for Stacee and his fictional band Arsenal, entitled "I Want Your Cans."

The weekly live talk show, which includes interviews and performances from Broadway stars, is held at 6 PM at the New York cabaret Don't Tell Mama. There is a $10 donation and a two-drink minimum. The donation goes directly to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the nation's leading industry-based, not-for-profit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organization.

Don't Tell Mama is located in New York City on West 46th Street, between Eighth and Ninth Avenues. Call (212) 757-0788 for reservations.

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages Cast Album - Coming Soon!

Hey, Rockers!

Just when you thought we'd run out of kick-ass news today, we've got an encore!

The cast and band of "Rock of Ages" spent last week recording the official cast album! Sources close to the show are predicting a release date sometime in early July, with an iTunes release in June.

As an added bonus, our friends at Broadway.com was there to capture the recording in photos.

When we get a confirmed release date, we will let you guys know here on The Cry of the Strip, so stay tuned!

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

FIVE TONY NOMINATIONS FOR ROCK OF AGES!!!!

Hey, Rockers!

It is a HUGE day for "Rock of Ages" and all of us who love them. The little show that started in a club in Los Angeles has now been nominated for FIVE Tony Awards, including Best Musical!

"Rock of Ages" has been nominated for:

Best Musical

Best Leading Actor in a Musical (Constantine Maroulis)

Best Direction of a Musical (Kristin Hanggi)

Best Sound Design of a Musical (Peter Hylenski)

Best Costumes (Gregory Gale)

Tune in to CBS on Sunday, June 7th at 7pm to see the Sunset Strip take over the Great White(Snake) Way!

Congratulations to everyone involved from your friends at The Cry of the Strip!

Rock ON!

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" on The Today Show May 25th! Be There!

Hey, Rockers!

Before you head out for your Memorial Day barbecues, join us at The Today Show as the cast of “Rock of Ages” turns Rockefeller Plaza into a little slice of the Sunset Strip with a killer performance as part of the Toyota Summer Concert Series!

Be there on Monday, May 25th as "Rock of Ages" helps kick off the unofficial start of summer…and be in the UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL FAN SECTION of the Plaza, thanks to your friends at The Cry of The Strip!

Send an email to todayshowconcerts@nbcuni.com with the subject line “Rock of Ages – The Cry of the Strip Sent Me!” and the following information and you will be the one of the first to be issued Toyota Concert Series “Fan Passes”:

Name
Email Address
Name(s) of up to Three (3) guests

And don’t forget! We want to see shirts, signs, smiles and lots of ENERGY so the whole nation can see the love we all have for “Rock of Ages,” the hottest show on the Great White(snake) Way!

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

Theater Audience Awards - Vote for "Rock of Ages"!

Hey, Rockers!!!

Two of the largest theater-industry sites on the Internet have kicked off their Audience Choice Awards, timed to coincide with the upcoming Tony Awards...and we'd like you guys to not only cast your votes, but help spread the word about the awards!

Broadwayworld.com - Theater Fan Choice Awards

Broadway.com - 10th Annual Audience Awards

Just as the Bourbon Room rules the Sunset Strip, let's make sure that "Rock of Ages" rules the Great White(snake) Way!

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" TV Appearances, Special Guests...and an Award or Two!

Hey, Rockers!

Lately, there have been some awesome TV appearances by the "Rock of Ages" cast, some megawatt stars of tv, film and rock and roll visiting the show...and a cast member has been recognized a recent appearance in another production (but just got the award). So kick off your heels and scrape off the makeup (you too, ladies!), get comfortable...and away we go!

First of all, your friends here at The Cry of the Strip want to make sure that just in case you're totally retro and haven't gotten one of those fancy TiVo things, you still get to catch two AWESOME appearances by the cast of "Rock of Ages" and some very special guests.

First, on Monday April 27th, "Rock of Ages" stars Constantine Maroulis and Amy Spanger joined legendary rockers Tommy Shaw of Styx and Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon at the CBS Early Show. Amy and Constantine were interviewed to promote "Rock of Ages."




Later, they joined Tommy and Kevin on the CBS Early Show stage as they performed their new single "Can't Stop Rockin" (also the name of the Styx/REO Speedwagon / 38 Special tour, which kicks off May 12th).




On Wednesday, April 29th, the cast and band of "Rock of Ages" made some rock and roll dreams come true as Regis Philbin donned some leather and studs, learned "metal hands" and got in touch with his inner rock star during Broadway Week on "Live with Regis and Kelly."



What's even more amazing - "Reege" isn't the only celebrity with the desire to hang out in the Bourbon Room! "How I Met Your Mother" star Neil Patrick Harris, 80's icon (Batman? Beetlejuice? MR. MOM!?!?!?!?) Michael Keaton, legendary rocker Mickey Dolenz of The Monkees and "Lost" star Matthew Fox have all stopped by "Rock of Ages" in the past week. Michael Twittered about the fun he had at the show, and both Neil and Matthew sang the shows praises on various talk shows...word is getting around!

Last, but certainly not least, we'd like to send a special "way to go" out to cast member Tad Wilson on his winning his first professional theater award this past week. Tad was recognized as Best Actor in a Musical by SALT (Saratoga Area Local Theater) for his performance as Jean Valjean in the Merry-Go-Round production of "Les Miserables".

One final note to close out this mega-sized blog post - the "Rock of Ages" cast album was recorded yesterday! A release date is tentatively set for late May.

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Local Radio and NATIONAL TV Appearances for Rock of Ages Cast!

Hey, Rockers!

Here's some breaking news...cast members from "Rock of Ages" will be making radio and TV appearances in the next week and we want you guys to have all the details!

Thursday, April 23rd -
Constantine Maroulis ("Drew") will be interviewed on the following radio shows:
Q104.3 FM - "Jim Kerr Rock and Roll Morning Show" 7am (Eastern)
103.5FM 'KTU - Interview at 8:30am (Eastern)

Monday, April 27th-
Amy Spanger ("Sherrie") and Constantine Maroulis ("Drew") will be interviewed on The CBS Early Show outside at 8:30am (Eastern). REO Speedwagon and Styx will also be on hand to perform "Can't Fight This Feelin'," "Too Much Time On My Hands," and their new single "Can't Stop Rockin'." The powers-that-be at ROA HQ are asking fans to "bring your lighters, make kick-a$$ signs, and rock out with us!" For details on how to join the fun on Monday at CBS, go here.

Tuesday, April 28th -
REO Speedwagon's Kevin Cronin and Tommy Shaw of Styx will be interviewed live on FOX’s national morning show “The Morning Show w/ Mike & Juliet” and will play teasers of “Can’t Fight This Feelin'” and “Too Much Time On My Hands” and perform a 2-minute version of “Can’t Stop Rockin’”. Clips from "Rock of Ages" will be shown and Tommy and Kevin will talk about the show.

Wednesday, April 29th-
"Live with Regis and Kelly" paid a visit to "Rock of Ages" and this trip to the Sunset Strip will be broadcast on Wednesday, April 29th!

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages "Class of 2009" - Katherine Tokarz!

Hey, Rockers!

You know what? I just can’t sit here at The Cry of the Strip HQ and let the new guys in the cast have all the fun answering my questions!

So with that in mind, I would like to introduce to you the lady who brings Sherrie’s dream self to life and goes in-depth with Stacee as Constance Sack (of Kerrang! Magazine)…Katherine Tokarz!

(that's Katherine on the right and yours truly on the left)

1. Full Name: Katherine Denise Tokarz

2. Nickname(s): Kat, Big Kat, Kasha, Tokes

3. Role(s) in “Rock of Ages”: Ensemble / Dream Sherrie / Constance Sack

4. Song you most looking forward to performing in the show: “Don't Stop Believin'”

5. Funniest / most embarrassing moment in the run of the show so far: I've already fallen a couple of times onstage but my favorite was an almost" moment. I was running onstage for a “protestor” scene and I almost did an old-school banana-peel-slip-fall....but I saved it. In response I made the "Safe" motion that umps do in baseball. Everyone laughed and I felt invincible for a couple of seconds! :-)

6. In “Rock of Ages,” Drew’s a barback, Lonny’s a sound engineer and Sherrie’s a waitress. If you weren’t about to be in a hit musical on Broadway, what would you be doing for a living? I would be traveling somewhere and writing.

7. Have you ever seen one of the artists with a song in "Rock of Ages" in concert? Yes If so, who? Night Ranger, who wrote “Sister Christian” …at the ROA opening night party!!!

Awesome answers, Kat! Stay tuned...more interviews on the way soon!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages Nominated for Two Drama League Awards!

Hey, Rockers!

And the awards train keeps a-rollin' all week long!

This morning, "Rock of Ages" was nominated for two awards from The Drama League!

Congratulations to "Rock of Ages" on being nominated for Distinguished Production of a Musical and to Constantine Maroulis on his nomination for Distinguished Performance!

Constantine was also selected last month as an honorary co-chairperson of the Drama League Luncheon, which will be held May 15th at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. The winners of the Drama League Awards will be announced at the luncheon.

Rock on!!!!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages - Two Outer Critics Circle Nominations!!!!

Hey, Rockers!

Awards season has started in the theater community and "Rock of Ages" has just earned two nominations from the Outer Critics Circle!

Congratulations to "Rock of Ages" on being nominated for Best New Musical and to Wesley Taylor on his nomination as Best Featured Actor in a Musical!

The winners will be announced on May 11th and the awards ceremony held at the legendary Sardi's Restaurant on May 21st.

Rock on!!!!

Miss Lizzy

Rock of Ages "Class of 2009" - James Carpinello

Hey, Rockers!!!

To get you guys out of your April 15th funk and make your day a little less taxing (ha ha!), your friends here at The Cry of the Strip proudly introduce you to the man who brings life to the llama-loving, waitress-wooing, hard-rocking bundle of ego known as "Stacee Jaxx"...James Carpinello!

1. Full Name: James Anthony Carpinello

2. Nickname(s): Carp, Carpy, my buddy's daughter calls me 'google eye!'

3. Role(s) in “Rock of Ages”: Stacee Jaxx and Sherrie's dad just long enough to sing 'Sister Christian'...Awesome.

4. Song you most looking forward to performing in the show each night: 'Every Rose'...favorite part of the show!

5. Funniest / most embarrassing moment in the run of the show so far? Someone at the stage door told me they had some socks to give me...was that a hint?

6. In “Rock of Ages,” Drew’s a barback, Lonny’s a sound engineer and Sherrie’s a waitress. If you weren’t in a hit musical on Broadway, what would you be doing for a living? I live in Los Angeles and have a production company, so probably working on one of our films. Or being a manny for my two kids!

7. Ever seen one of the artists with a song in "Rock of Ages" in concert? If so, who? All of them. On YouTube.

8. If your life right now could be described with an 80's song title, what would it be? 'Caribbean Queen' by Billy Ocean.

Stay tuned for more interviews soon!

Rock on,

Miss Lizzy

"Rock of Ages" Opening Night Photo / Video / Blog Round-up!

Hey, Rockers!

The staff here at TCOTS have recovered from Tuesday night's marvelous mayhem and would like to share with you some fabulous video and photo footage from around the internet of the opening night of "Rock of Ages"!

We're also going to include some additional reviews and highlights from around the blogosphere for your reading enjoyment.

Photo Coverage:

Playbill.com

Broadway.com

Theatermania.com

BroadwayWorld.com - Opening Night Party

Broadwayworld.com - Red Carpet Arrivals

Broadwayworld.com - Opening Night Curtain Call

New York Times Slideshow

WireImage - Opening Night Arrivals and Curtain Call

WireImage - Opening Night After Party

Getty Images - Opening Night Arrivals and Curtain Call

Getty Images - Opening Night After-Party

(Please note that the photo wire services listed in italics require membership to view full-size images and/or without watermarks - sorry!)

Video Coverage:

Broadway Beat

Broadway.tv

Broadway.com

Rock of Ages Channel on You Tube - Opening Night

Reviews and Recaps from the Blogosphere:

Time Out New York

Theater Loop (Chicago Tribune)

GoldDerby (L.A. Times)

Newsday

Blog Critics Magazine (Jon Sobel)

Oscar E. Moore (blog review)

Kul: That Sounds Cool Blog

Playbill on Opening Night - Night of the Drunken Fireflies

Shockhound Blog

NYTheatre.com Review

Broadway and Me Blog

Ryan J Davis (blog)

James Sims (Sofa Snark Blog)

Mnet Blog

Yelp! Night at "Rock of Ages"

The Sexy Armpit Blog

Rock on!

Miss Lizzy