One of the biggest parties on Broadway, Rock of Ages offers fans rowdy fun and tons of laughs. Most of the time, the guys leading the laughs and the fun are Genson Blimline and Adam Dannheisser (pictured above) as the Bourbon Room’s emcees Lonny and Dennis, respectively. It’s worth heading over the Helen Hayes right away just to see this remarkable pair in action. This week, the guys share with BroadwayBox the secret behind their awesome ‘80s pairing: farts, beers and comic timing.
What was your first impression of your co-star?
Dannheisser:
First time I met Genson was at his audition. He struck me as a cool, honest, down-to-earth fella who could sing his face off. Eager, earnest and professional.
Blimline:
My first impression was “this guy is a much better reader than they usually have at these auditions.” Adam was behind the table reading with all guys that came in. I find it best in this business to be as oblivious as possible, hence my ignorance as to who he was.
What do you think it is that makes your performances gel so well together?
Dannheisser:
I think neither of us are afraid to play—to try new things, to stay open to the audience and its nightly variance. We're in it together and I always trust his impulses.
Blimline:
Adam and I both approach the material in very real and honest way. We both let the material work in its most simple and true form. For example: A well-timed fart = hilarity. A well-timed fart coupled with a weird face = too much.
My favorite moment on stage with him is
Dannheisser:
NOT “Final Countdown.”
Blimline:
Holding hands, bowing as men of the theatre, knowing we just made 600 lives permanently and forever better.
The most memorable performance we shared has been
Dannheisser:
Oh man, most nights are a ride. But it was a ton of fun performing "I Can't Fight This Feeling" at the Super Bowl with Genson. A little Peyton Manning/Russell Wilson Bromance action.
Blimline:
The performances at the Super Bowl were pretty memorable. I think Adam would agree that it was really something when Bruno Mars came to us seeking guidance on how to calm his nerves and settle his breathing so that his voice could flow freely...
My co-star and I bond over
Dannheisser:
Sports, kids, funny dressing room nonsense and schlepping our balls off to get home to the suburbs every night.
Blimline:
Easy. Miller Lite and Jägermeister.
I’m envious of my co-star’s ability to
Dannheisser:
Lift me (and this show) eight times a week.
Blimline:
To approach the show—after almost five years—with focus, dedication, and new ideas. (Insert well-timed fart noise here.)
