VAMPIRES ROCK

Grand Theatre, Lancaster
19 & 20 November 2004

Reviewed by Sherry Currington

My evening began with a chat to Steve Steinman (Baron Von Rockula) in a rather pokey dressing room which he was sharing with the performer playing Stringfellow, one of the other characters. ...

Vampires Rock came off the back of The Meatloaf Story, which Steve has been touring for 15 years to rave reviews. He found that there was a gap in the market to accommodate audiences' love for classic rock music, so Vampires Rock was born and has now been touring for a year. The appreciation of the music is obvious but the show does not take itself too seriously, with "a bit of fun in between'. 15 years of touring, working 18 hours a day makes it clear that it is a labour of love, owing its success to the fantastic music that we were about to enjoy.

The stage was set, I was ready for the rock onslaught… and I was not disappointed! We were welcomed to Club Live And Let Die in New York in the year 2030 where Baron Von Rockula was searching for a new bride, who came in the form of Pandora Honey Roseybox. My companion summed it up beautifully when he said "at the heart of it all is a love story'. The stage was appropriately decorated, the costumes were a mix of leather, lace and rubber - and the songs did not disappoint.

The audience was a mishmash of old rockers, Goths, couples, families and groups all out to have a good time singing along to some classic rock and roll. As a confirmed rock chick I had no hesitation in singing along to favourites such as Bon Jovi, Bonnie Tyler, Guns ‘n' Roses and Billy Idol. To say the performances were excellent, both vocally and technically, would be a disservice to the performers. However, Pandora was the star. She was mesmerizing! Not only was she easy on the eye, but her voice and stage presence kept me hooked at the expense of the other performers.

The whole performance was an ensemble piece with each individual having an important role to play to make the show successful. Each artist was immensely talented and added their own stamp to the show. It didn't feel that egos were being damaged when another performer was in the spotlight, which all added to the great vibe that exuded from the stage rousing the crowd to partcipate and fully enjoy the experience.

At the end we were told that the cast would be in the foyer for photo opportunities and to sign programmes. I waited my turn and was very pleased with my photos. Again, a very nice group of people who love the music they perform and the audience who appreciate the effort that has gone into producing a night to remember!

Check out the spooky Vampires Rock Website at
www.vampiresrock.com