March 20, 2025
The Egyptian Theatre loves welcoming upcoming musicians of different genres into our community. In this edition of Backstage at the Egyptian, Nick Tirey, a.k.a. “Nikki Starr” from That Arena Rock Show, is interviewed by our Marketing Intern, Lia Martinez. Keep reading to learn how the band formed in 2017, how long each member has been playing their instrument and what Nikki is most looking forward to in their first performance here at the Egyptian Theatre.
Lia: What special effects/personal touches make the show an experience?
Nikki: When we started this band, our goal was to recreate the full 80s arena rock experience—not just play the songs, but bring the energy, spectacle, and larger-than-life feel of that era. We wanted a show that truly transported people back in time, with massive lights, smoke, theatrical moments, and immersive video content. Throwing on Party City / 80’s costumes and standing still on stage was never an option for us. We set out to deliver a performance that could stand alongside the legends of the 80s, making every audience feel the power and magic of that era for a few unforgettable hours.
L: When did you become an established band? How did you find each member to form it?
N: That Arena Rock Show began in 2017, with our first show hitting the stage in 2018. At the time, I was playing in another tribute band, where I gained valuable insight into the business side of the tribute scene. But I wanted to create something bigger—something that celebrated my favorite era of music in a way that truly honored the spectacle of 80s arena rock. Growing up as a huge KISS fan, I was always drawn to the showmanship and larger-than-life performances. So, we brainstormed, collaborated, and built a show that we would want to see ourselves. That vision connected with people in a way that has afforded us the most amazing job in the world!
Our singer, TBone, came into the picture through a Facebook video where he was singing karaoke. A mutual friend had shared it, and I was impressed. He would come out to see my other band perform, and eventually, we met and talked. I invited him to jam one day, and that was the beginning of this wild circus we now call That Arena Rock Show.
Brady Savage, our bass player, joined in a similar way. He had been coming to our shows, and I’d noticed his guitar covers on Instagram. When we needed a bassist, I asked if he could play bass, and the rest is history—he’s been with us for almost three years now.
Sean Rokken, our drummer, started out as our merch guy. When we needed someone to fill in on drums, I reached out, and he casually mentioned, “I’d be up for doing it full-time.” He stepped in, and it just clicked.
Our lead guitarist, Charlie Kash, is the youngest member of the band at just 19. I found him through a guitarist-wanted ad posted by someone else. After checking out his profile, I thought he might be a great fit, so I messaged him and asked if he could learn 20 songs in a week. His response? “Yeah, no problem.” What I didn’t realize was that he ended up skipping one of his last days of school to play his first show with us. He absolutely crushed it and has been a key part of the band ever since.
L: Why did you choose the 70s and 80s “Classic” Rock N’ Roll music era as the basis of your shows?
N: The reason we celebrate 70s and 80s rock is simple—we had cool parents who raised us on this music. For me, it all started with my dad. He took me to concerts as a kid, introducing me to bands like KISS, Poison, and so many other legendary rock acts. Those experiences sparked my love for live music and set me on a path of discovering and appreciating the greats. Over time, it became more than just something I listened to—it became a part of who I am.
L: How long have each of the band members been playing their instruments? Do your members have other instruments they play besides the one they use during the show?
N: Each guy in the band has been honing their craft for quite some time. I think we all play guitar, and can play bass as well. Charlie, our lead guitarist has probably been playing the least amount of time but you would never know. I think he told me he only started playing when he was 14. So 5 years!
L: With it being your first time performing at the Egyptian Theatre, what are you most looking forward to?
N: The best part of every show isn’t just the music—it’s the people we meet along the way. We typically do a M&G after every show at the merch booth. Thanks to this band, we’ve made friends all over the country—from Key West, FL, Castle Rock, CO, to St. Louis, IL, Pittsburgh, PA, and hopefully soon, DeKalb, IL! Without this band, I’d just be a homebody, so getting the chance to connect with so many incredible people in so many different places is something we’ll never take for granted.
