Theatre / Reviews
Review: Vampires Rock, Bristol Hippodrome
Cheesy, ear-splitting rock is what fans of Vampires Rock have come to expect, and this show gave exactly that to a lively Hippodrome crowd dressed as colourfully as the rockers on stage.
The story is set in New York, 2030, where evil Baron Von Rockula presides over the Live and Let Die club for vampires, assisted by lascivious janitor Bosley. The Baron tries to woo aspiring singer Pandora, who eventually becomes his bride. Cue plenty of blood, vampire jokes and the inevitable coffin.
The dialogue is a vehicle for the songs so don’t expect any Oscar-winning performances here. Equally, show creator Steve Steinman doesn’t really want you to believe that he is a terrifying Baron vampire, and frequently undercuts the dialogue with a comment of his own. Indeed, moments in the first half start to feel more like pantomime, which the cast obviously encourage.
The focus instead is on the music, and this is what the crowd is here for: everyone is on their feet for the whole of the second half. Songs by Meatloaf, Queen, Guns ‘n’ Roses and Alice Cooper all find their way in.
It has to be said that the cast are obviously playing it safe with this long-standing show, and there are few really stand out vocals. Hayley Russell’s performance becomes much stronger after her transformation to vampire: clearly she’s more comfortable playing a PVC-clad power singer than a shy crooner.
It’s worth mentioning that in a post-Operation Yewtree world, the character of pervert Bosley (John Evans) seems rather distasteful, with his constant crotch rubbing: for many, though, he’s clearly a source of mirth.
More a rock covers night than musical theatre, this show will continue to please its devoted fans.
Vampires Rock was at Bristol Hippodrome on Friday, January 9. For further dates, visit www.vampiresrock.com/home
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