The hit musical Rock of Ages is about to strike the Grand Opera House stage – and playing the role of cheeky rocker Stacee Jaxx is Blue star Antony Costa. Here’s what he had to say about his new venture…
Most people will remember you as one of the four members of pop group Blue. What was it like when you first went from pop music to musical theatre?
It was definitely a challenge at first, especially to make audiences see me in a different light. But it is an exciting one and one that I always cherish having the opportunity to do.
What made you want to be involved with Rock of Ages?
I love the music and love the role and the story is brilliant! Rock of Ages is a really fun show and one I am so excited to be a part of.
Could you tell us a bit about the show?
Rock of Ages is set in the 1980s, when rock music was huge. It tells a love story between Drew and Sherrie. Both of them want to be rock stars in their own way, and come to Hollywood to chase that dream. I play Stacee Jaxx, a superstar rock singer who arrives and mixes things up a bit. He’s cheeky and very sure of himself, especially when it comes to the ladies. But in and amongst the show there is some great music!!
Do you enjoy playing someone who’s a little bit villainous?
I love it, as it’s so out of my comfort zone and a part I’ve always wanted to play. Stacee Jaxx is so different to how I am normally that it will be fun to explore that kind of character! He’s a cocky rock star, determined to go solo from his band, a womaniser and very full of himself!
Do you have a favourite song to perform?
I can’t wait to sing “Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi!!
What are the challenges of performing this style of music?
The only big challenge is looking after your voice when doing so many shows, and making sure you are on it 100% every night!
What was your first experience of musical theatre?
As a teenager I went to see Blood Brothers for my GCSE drama and it blew me away… and 12 years later I was on the West End stage performing as Mickey Johnstone [from Blood Brothers], it was a dream come true.
Do you have a role you’d love to play in the future?
I would really like to play Deco Cuffe in ‘The Commitments’ as it’s right down my street vocal-wise.
You’ve toured a lot, both as part of a band and with various shows. Is it something you enjoy, or do you find it a challenge?
I love all aspects of touring as you are in a different venue each week and it’s all about giving the audience a good show, which is a great challenge.
Do you have any ‘must-have’ items you take with you?
Family photos, my phone and charger, of course!
Do you have a go-to karaoke song?
Yes it’s ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ by The Commitments.
What do you like to do during any down time you get?
I love going gym and hanging out with my fellow cast mates doing different activities etc… (if we have time). Oh, and watching football!
Have you ever been given a piece of advice, or some words of wisdom, that have stuck with you?
The only advice I’ve been given was from Sir Elton John when I was in Blue and we performed “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” with him, and he said to me and the lads to always enjoy it as you will never know when it will come to an end.
Finally, what can audiences expect when they come to see you in Rock of Ages?
They can expect a lot of fun, some fantastic music and I will be in full-on rock gear with long hair, cowboy boots – the lot! I cannot wait to get started! Audiences are in for an amazing show!
Rock of Ages runs from the 23rd-27th April at the Grand Opera House. Click here to book tickets.
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