Displaying items by tag: Taylor DiTola
"Rock of Ages" at Paramount Theatre is Bursting with Fresh Talent and Energy
As a reviewer I've attended many productions of Rock of Ages and Paramount Theatre’s current production with its talented cast, wide-ranging set and rockin’ hair band rates right up there with some of the best I've seen.
For me, it was especially exciting to return to the gorgeous and comfortable Paramount Theatre after the long pandemic-based hiatus. And just like with most productions at this classic theatre, I was not disappointed.
Rock of Ages, also made into a movie starring Tom Cruise, Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin (to name a few) is a tongue-in-cheek love story about two Hollywood hopefuls, Drew (Kieran McCabe) and Sherrie (Taylor DiTola), one a rock singer and one an actress, who hope to make it to the big time in the 1980's. Multiple story lines also surround its main love story as The Bourbon, a long-time staple in the rock scene, is in danger of being shut down to make way for a modern chain store. The Bourbon is a gritty rock club (and really looks the part) that is run by Dennis (Karl Hamilton) the stereotypical club owner who only lives to rock another day, along with his animated sidekick Lonnie (Shea Coffman), who also narrates the story – and is hilarious doing so. The blend of humor and music is weaved together flawlessly. 80’s rock hits are showcased throughout by the show’s talented cast takes us from one scene to the other. From Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take it” to Nightranger’s “Sister Christian” to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” to Warrant’s “Heaven” the timeless classics seem endless. Each number is uniquely arranged and tremendously choreographed on the show’s super colorful and brightly lit set.
Taylor Ditola as Sherrie has a great voice and displays a fine sense of humor in her role and Kieran McaCabe, as the lead rock singer Drew, really stands out with his remarkable vocal range and delightful stage presence. Both really look the part and have a nice chemistry together. Though excellent performances in this production were many, I’d like to specifically point out the absolutely outstanding dancing of Christopher John Kelly, who is also the understudy for Franz. I simply could not take my eyes off his amazing dancing whether he was soloing or in the ensemble.
The entire cast does a great job and occasionally a character bursts out with a voice that startles with its power and intensity as Melody Betts, for one, succeeds to do as Justice/ Mother.
Even if you've seen Rock of Ages before you will absolutely be blown away by the huge amount of ability and energy in every member of this seasoned cast and the spectacular presentation created by director/co-choreographer, Amber Mak, co-choreographer, Annie Jo Fischer and the entire production team. In the opening night performance, the audience was filled with people of all ages, and many hard-core fans of the show gleefully held up the flameless lighters and sang along with their favorite hits, screaming with laughter, as this is first and foremost a musical comedy.
I highly recommend this production to everyone who has been eagerly waiting to return to seeing live theater as this tragic pandemic wore on. Rock of Ages at Paramount Theatre has all the raucous humor, big stage numbers, eye catching costumes and joyous energy that only live theater done right can provide. This Jeff Recommended production runs through May 29th. For tickets and/or more information visit https://paramountaurora.com/events/rock-of-ages/.
On a final note, as one who appreciates having dinner before a show, I was very thankful to be invited to discover the offerings at Stolp Island Social Kitchen and Steakhouse. The experience was as impressive as it was convenient and cozy thanks to its tasty seasonal cuisine, super friendly service, and proximity to the theater - right next door to the Paramount. It was such a pleasure to be able to park once, and then enjoy a perfectly timed and delicious pre-show dinner in this lively atmosphere with lots of comfortable booth seating. Just like the Poison song says, “It don’t get better than this.”
City Lit’s Shane Saddles Up a Classic Western With Fresh Heart
30 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewCity Lit Theatre’s world premiere of Shane, adapted for the stage and directed by Mark Pracht, brings a fresh, nostalgic…
In Sisters, Barrie Turns an AI Fable into an Impressive Character Study
29 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewThe rise of artificial intelligence raises many questions about its effect on humanity. What does it mean if we become…
Buddy Holly’s Brilliance, Reawakened on the Drury Lane Stage
27 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewDrury Lane Theatre opens its latest musical with a warm jolt of rock ’n’ roll energy as Buddy – The…
Kokandy's JEKYLL & HYDE Extended by Popular Demand
26 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreBroadway In Chicago is pleased to announce a darkly delicious Halloween surprise: Kokandy Productions’ critically acclaimed revival of JEKYLL & HYDE will be extended…
Following Obama Center premiere, Manual Cinema's acclaimed productions return to Chicago's Studebaker Theater
26 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreChicago-based Emmy Award-winning performance collective and film/video production company Manual Cinema premiered two new hand-animated films at the Obama Presidential Center Museum…
Playmakers Lab’s That’s Weird Grandma’s 25th Birthday is a fine place to giggle
25 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewIf you need an energy boost, skip the can of Monster and get yourself, plus loved ones of any age,…
Victory Gardens Theater presents the World Premiere of Zayd Ayers Dohrn's The Humanities September 10 through October 4
25 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreVictory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln Avenue), an historic incubator for new play development, proudly announces the World Premiere staging of The…
Lookingglass Kowalski starring Johnny Galecki and Jacob Moskovitz September 15 through October 25
25 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreJoining the previously announced stars of Kowalski Johnny Galecki ("The Big Bang Theory," "The Little Dog Laughed") as Tennessee Williams and Jacob Moskovitz ("Elle") as Marlon…
Shattered Globe Theatre Opens 36th Season with Midwest Premiere of VLADIMIR October 2 – November 14 at Theater Wit
25 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreShattered Globe Theatre is pleased to open its 36th Season with the Midwest premiere of Erika Sheffer's Vladimir, an unflinching drama of resistance directed by Ensemble Member Lou Contey*,…
TICKETS FOR A 20 RETURNS WITH SPECIALLY PRICED $20 TICKETS FROM HOT TIX AUGUST 27-SEPTEMBER 14, 2026
24 August 2026 in Theatre BuzzThe League of Chicago Theatres announces the return of Tickets for a 20. From Thursday, August 27 through Monday, September 14, 2026, theatregoers can…
Babes With Blades's announces William Shakespeare's KING LEAR, October 15 - November 21
24 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreBabes With Blades Theatre Company’s (BWBTC), now presenting the world premiere of yo ho. through August 29 at The Edge Off-Broadway, shares the…
BrightSide Theatre announces THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL, to play October 2 - 18
24 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreBrightSide Theatre has announced cast and crew for THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL - the kickoff production of BrightSide's 15th Anniversary season.…
Chicago Shakespeare Theater announces Two Shakespeare Productions in Repertory beginning October 13 - January 3
21 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreChicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) announces the cast and creative team for the company's fall Shakespeare Repertory productions, an unforgettable theatrical event at the heart…
McHenry Outdoor Theater: Nostalgia With a Modern Heartbeat
20 August 2026 in Theatre BuzzThere was a particular kind of magic to seeing a movie outside when I was a kid in 1970s Chicago…
‘Anatomy of a Suicide’ Is Hard to Watch, But Not Because of the Subject
18 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewPerhaps surprisingly, Anatomy of a Suicide is not an overwhelmingly emotionally gripping play, nor is it horrifying. Instead, it vividly…
Gwydion Theatre Company presents The Chicago Premiere of Por’ Knockers at the Greenhouse Theater’s Studio 44 September 10 - October 4
18 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreThis narrative tracks five individuals within the "People’s Diasporatic Party"—outfitted in corporate attire—as they take refuge in a desolate East…
Oil Lamp's I Love You Because has heart, despite lukewarm romance
17 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewFinding love has always been a challenge. In Jane Austen’s day, a time governed by strict rules of courtship, couples…
Joffrey Ballet opens its 2026-27 season with Chicago Premiere of John Neumeier's theatrical masterpiece, Liliom, featuring 16-piece live jazz band on stage SEPTEMBER 17-27
17 August 2026 in Upcoming DanceThe Joffrey Ballet opens its 2026-27 season with the Chicago Premiere of John Neumeier's landmark narrative ballet Liliom. Inspired by Ferenc Molnár's 1909 play and…
Detroit ’67 at Pulse Theatre Chicago – September 11-November 1
17 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatrePulse Theatre Chicago proudly announces a defining new chapter in the company's history with the expansion of its artistic leadership,…
Hail Mary/Maria at Theater Wit – A Welcome New Slant on Crossing Over into Adulthood
17 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewComing of age stories resonate more profoundly when they mirror the lived reality of a real person. That’s why the…
Remy Bumppo Theatre Company Hosts "Exploring The In Between: A Conversation About Mid-Sized Theatres in Chicago," Monday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at Theater
17 August 2026 in Theatre BuzzRemy Bumppo Theatre Company’s 30th Anniversary Season continues with "Exploring The In Between: A Conversation About Mid-Sized Theatres in Chicago," Monday,…
Shattered Globe Theatre Announces 36th Season
17 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreShattered Globe Theatre (SGT), now under the artistic leadership of Ian Frank, is pleased to announce its 36th Season, featuring three plays that explore the…
M.A.D.D. Rhythms Announces the return of the Chicago Tap Summit this October and other 25th Anniversary Events
17 August 2026 in Upcoming DanceM.A.D.D. (Making A Difference Dancing) Rhythms, Chicago’s premier tap collective, is proud to celebrate its 25th Anniversary at the Chicago Tap…
BLUE MAN GROUP "A NEW HOLIDAY SURPRISE" Coming to Chicago for the Holidays NOVEMBER 24 – DECEMBER 13
17 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreBroadway In Chicago is pleased to announce Blue Man Group will bring its first-ever holiday production, "A NEW HOLIDAY SURPRISE," on…
League of Chicago Theatres hosts 2026 Spotlight Gala: Unmask the Night, Embrace the Drama October 19
17 August 2026 in Theatre BuzzThe League of Chicago Theatres will host its annual benefit, the 2026 Spotlight Gala: Unmask the Night, Embrace the Drama at City Hall –…
Broadway In Chicago presents Waitress at JAMES M. NEDERLANDER THEATRE OCTOBER 13 – 18, 2026
17 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreBroadway In Chicago is delighted to announce that single tickets for the upcoming engagement of the 10th Anniversary tour of the hilarious…
Otherworld Theatre Boldly Goes Again with Starship Edsel Season 4
17 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewOtherworld Theatre blasts back into the cosmos with Season 4 of Starship Edsel: An Improvised Star Trek Parody, the latest…
Bernstein’s Score Burns Bright in Music Theater Works’ West Side Story
16 August 2026 in Upcoming TheatreSome musicals carry such cultural weight that every new production feels like a referendum on how well a company can…
Gus and Alice Brings Nostalgic, Cozy Comedy
15 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewTheatre 31 Productions’ Gus and Alice has returned to the Greenhouse Theater Center this month. Written by Chicago playwright Mike Rago,…
From Subway Cars to Chicago Stages: Marcus Monroe at The Comedy Bar
14 August 2026 in Theatre in ReviewSometimes the best way to find a comedian who’s new to you is by stumbling onto a clip that stops…
Latest Articles
-
City Lit’s Shane Saddles Up a Classic Western With Fresh Heart
Written by Angelo CamposCity Lit Theatre’s world premiere of Shane, adapted for the stage and directed by Mark Pracht, brings a fresh, nostalgic perspective to Jack Schaefer’s classic novel - a story immortalized by Alan Ladd in the memorable 1953 film. Pracht, who… -
In Sisters, Barrie Turns an AI Fable into an Impressive Character Study
Written by Angelo CamposThe rise of artificial intelligence raises many questions about its effect on humanity. What does it mean if we become increasingly reliant on AI to think for us, create for us, and entertain us? What happens if this tool encroaches…
-
Buddy Holly’s Brilliance, Reawakened on the Drury Lane Stage
Written by Kimberly KatzDrury Lane Theatre opens its latest musical with a warm jolt of rock ’n’ roll energy as Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story, by Alan James, returns to the stage, decades after its 1989 debut at the Plymouth Theatre Royal… -
Kokandy's JEKYLL & HYDE Extended by Popular Demand
Written by Buzz Center StageBroadway In Chicago is pleased to announce a darkly delicious Halloween surprise: Kokandy Productions’ critically acclaimed revival of JEKYLL & HYDE will be extended by popular demand through November 8. For a frightfully good group night, discounted group rates for parties of 10 or more may…
Does your theatre company want to connect with Buzz Center Stage or would you like to reach out and say "hello"? Message us through facebook or shoot us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
*This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to Buzz Center Stage. Buzz Center Stage is a non-profit, volunteer-based platform that enables, and encourages, staff members to post their own honest thoughts on a particular production.