Genson Blimline will replace Mitchell Jarvis as Lonny in Rock of Ages beginning December 19 at the Helen Hayes Theatre. Jarvis, who will take a leave of absence to perform in The Toxic Avenger at the Alley Theatre in Houston, will return on February 20, 2012.
Blimline has appeared on Broadway in South Pacific, and on the show's national tour. Blimline’s other touring credits include A Chorus Line, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Grease and Footloose.
Rock of Ages opened on Broadway on April 7, 2009 at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. The jukebox musical tells the story of aspiring rock star Drew Boley, who dreams of selling out stadiums. Lonny Barnett (Blimline) serves as the show’s narrator. Rock of Ages has a score packed with classic rock hits, including “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” “Here I Go Again” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” A movie version of the hit musical will be released on June 1.