Crystal Lake, Illinois – Fans of the iconic animatronic band Rock-afire Explosion have something exciting to look forward to this summer at the Volo Museum. Jacob Mickan, a talented 17-year-old from the Crystal Lake area, has been diligently working to revive the band, originally created by Aaron Fechter and popularized in ShowBiz Pizza places.
The Rock-afire Explosion, a seven-member band that entertained audiences at ShowBiz Pizza Place before later moving to Chuck E. Cheese, has garnered a loyal following over the years. Despite the band being out of the limelight for some time, its charm has persisted, attracting fans of all ages, including those who were not even born during its heyday in the 1980s and ’90s.
Brian Grams, the museum director at the Volo Museum, is overseeing the preparations for a series of Rock-afire Explosion concerts this summer. With the meticulous restoration of the band’s animatronics and the construction of a new stage, Grams and Mickan are working hard to bring the band back to life for fans to enjoy.
Mickan’s passion for animatronics was sparked by the popular video game series and film “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” which features similar themes. His dedication to restoring the Rock-afire bandmates to their former glory is evident in the countless hours he spends perfecting each character’s movements, from their limbs to their expressive eyes.
The museum’s investment in the Rock-afire Explosion, totaling roughly a quarter of a million dollars, demonstrates their commitment to preserving this piece of pop culture history for future generations to enjoy. With plans to offer free shows and potentially incorporate bill acceptors for convenient viewing, the museum aims to make the band’s performances accessible to all who appreciate its nostalgic charm.
The excitement surrounding the Rock-afire Explosion’s return is palpable, with even the band’s original creator, Aaron Fechter, expressing enthusiasm for Volo’s reintroduction of his beloved creation. The upcoming concerts at the Volo Museum promise to be a memorable experience for families and fans alike, as they witness the magic of the Rock-afire Explosion once again.
Visitors can look forward to enjoying the band’s performances at the museum’s newly constructed stage, surrounded by the charming atmosphere of Munchin’ Junction, where drinks and treats await. As the museum opens its doors to eager audiences, it invites guests to rediscover the joy and nostalgia of the Rock-afire Explosion, a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.