Some say the 1980s were a decade to forget. We had the creation of the "me" generation and Donald Trump became famous. The Challenger exploded, killing everyone aboard.
Nancy Reagan started a "Just Say No" campaign against drugs and Michael Jackson wore a sparkling glove.
But the '80s weren't all bad. We also had music. We had lots of head-banging heavy metal music and it really tore the place apart.
That's the heart behind "Rock of Ages," the Broadway musical running from Nov. 13 to 18 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.
You like your musical idols? How about Journey, Styx, Pat Benatar, Poison, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake? Their music makes an appearance in "Rock of Ages."
Like most musicals of this genre, there is no serious story involved here. Oh, they wrap something around the music, but the show is about the music and the times.
It's notable that the lead role of Drew Boley was originally created by an "American Idol" heartthrob, Constantine Maroulis.
Some people say the '80s were a music desert, but with songs like "We Built this City" and "Don't Stop Believin'" there was plenty of memorable and sing-along-able stuff.
That's what the experience of seeing "Rock of Ages" is like. It is designed to get your toes tapping, your butt shakin' and your vocal chords screaming at the long haired kings and queens onstage.
Tickets are available at the box office or at marcuscenter.org.
With a history in Milwaukee stretching back decades, Dave tries to bring a unique perspective to his writing, whether it's sports, politics, theater or any other issue.
He's seen Milwaukee grow, suffer pangs of growth, strive for success and has been involved in many efforts to both shape and re-shape the city. He's a happy man, now that he's quit playing golf, and enjoys music, his children and grandchildren and the myriad of sports in this state. He loves great food and hates bullies and people who think they are smarter than everyone else.
This whole Internet thing continues to baffle him, but he's willing to play the game as long as OnMilwaukee.com keeps lending him a helping hand. He is constantly amazed that just a few dedicated people can provide so much news and information to a hungry public.
Despite some opinions to the contrary, Dave likes most stuff. But he is a skeptic who constantly wonders about the world around him. So many questions, so few answers.
