School of Rock

This musical is based on the popular 2003 film of the same name and centres around Dewey Finn, an out of work rock singer who pretends to be his friend to secure a post as a teacher at a prestigious prep school. Realising his teaching skills are not up to the job, he embarks on a plan to enter the children into the Battle of the Bands and together they go on a journey of both musical enlightenment and personal development.

The set worked very well and was expertly handled by the stage crew, who switched it from bedroom to school to classroom as needed.  The small band were on an upper level at the back of the stage and produced a great sound. Costumes and makeup were entirely appropriate, as was hair and wigs. Other excellent elements of this production were sound and lighting. The sound quality was especially excellent and very well balanced so that every word could be heard. 

The whole show hinges on the main role of Dewey and that of the instrument playing children in his classroom and they certainly did not disappoint. Dewey Finn gave a magnificent performance.  His energy, characterisation and comic timing were outstanding and never once did he seem to pause for breath in this huge role. His singing, acting and guitar playing were all equally impressive.

The children were simply sublime. Each one of them gave their all to the performance and collectively formed a very believable and enthusiastic class of young children. Like Dewey, they were singing, acting, dancing and instrument playing sensations – every one of them!  There were many highlights, but particularly memorable was ‘If only you would listen’ as the kids’ plea to their parents to let them be who they want to be.

The other parts certainly held their own in this impressive cast.  Rosalie, the nervous, uptight, Headmistress, gave a very considered and poignant performance. Her scenes in which she showed her vulnerabilities were especially heart-warming and she really got to show off her excellent singing voice in ‘Where did the Rock go?’.

Ned, the flatmate and teacher, was well acted and humorous. His domineering girlfriend Patty was also well played.

Other roles including teachers and parents were well covered by the very able cast of adults who produced a wonderful sound in the chorus numbers.

The entire production was bursting with energy from beginning to end. Direction and choreography was precise and well planned to allow the children and Dewey to shine. Musical Direction was also excellent with impressive and well-balanced vocals throughout.  They were supported by a superb band of musicians and an superb band of young people on stage.

Having never seen this musical before, I certainly wouldn’t rate it as a favourite of mine and at over two and a half hours (not including the interval) it is a long show. However, I honestly could not imagine that anyone could have staged a better production. The energy and professionalism of adults and children alike was amazing and the audience loved it

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