AUDIENCES step back in time for Rock of Ages at London's Shaftesbury Theatre.

A classic boy-meets-girl love story billed as Spinal Tap meets the Rocky Horror Show turns into a musical fiesta of 80s "hair

metal" tunes peppered with power ballads.

The story may not be the most elaborate but the music carries the show with an accomplished cast adding chemistry and comic timing.

Simon Lipkin, who plays Lonny the narrator, steals the show with his hilarious interaction with the audience before dropping back into sync with his co-stars.

With him is Justin Lee Collins who plays Dennis Dupree. The pair's on-stage relationship oozes ****- eroticism.

Shayne Ward, winner of the X Factor in 2005, proves he is more than a one-dimensional one-hit wonder. He is worth his weight in gold as the devilishly funny womanising, alcoholic rocker Stacee Jaxx. He has a powerful yet mellifluous singing voice and his dancing was spot on. He was a joy to watch.

By the end of the show I was out of my seat and dancing in the aisles with the rest of the audience and cast members.

This feel-good comedy comes with great music, greatcostumes, great cast and great fun.

It was like being at a concert. My only complaint was that it was over too quickly. It was my best night out since the 1980s.

Laura Archer.