School of Rock

School of Rock is a rock musical that is based on the 2003 film of the same name, written by Mike White. Music is by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Glenn Slater; in addition to music from the 2003 film. The book is by Julian Fellowes.

YESPA staged their production in the Chequer Mead Theatre, a delightful venue with a large auditorium/bar and a fine, big stage area. Staging was simple and effective, with furniture moved smoothly and effectively by crew and cast.

Lighting was always attractive and well-focussed…lovely to see. Sound was excellent for principals, but some of the chorus numbers were a bit muddy.

Jamie Cordell’s music was brilliant with beautiful guitar work. The band supported the singers very nicely. One young drummer had bags of technique and enthusiasm…and volume…but, of course, that was the idea. It was a fun moment when the band crawled out of their pit to admire the student musicians …and demonstrate that the kids really were doing it themselves. And doing it really well !

Costumes were superb. They were attractive and appropriate for bands, teachers, parents and the 800 pupils in school uniform. It must have been hot work ! The Props were many and just right and looked expensive ! The cast were totally relaxed and confident when using them.

The standard of acting and singing was extremely good throughout - the entire cast and the entire show. Movement and dance were precise, synchronised and a joy to watch…a credit to Lindsay Swift’s choreography.

Great opening number I’m Too Hot For You by Theo (Jonathan Grey) and the No Vacancy band, with Dewey Finn, the guitarist, showboating like mad. Joe Halligan played this unlovable, self-obsessed character superbly and with such huge energy that we rooted for him nonetheless.

The early dialogue was sharp and funny as Dewey fought his eviction by the strident Patty (Henriette McCardell) and her tame boyfriend Ned (Harry Stock). At school, he’s confronted with the formidable principal, Ms Mullins, played with great authority & maturity by Nia Harrington-Benton. Loved her duet with Dewey Where did the Rock Go. And I would willingly endure The Magic Flute to listen to her sing Queen of the Night again.

Dewey’s class of geeks were led by Zack (Kit Theodore Kinsella) and, of course, Summer (Niamh Ogle). They all morphed neatly into the coolest of bands. Stick it to the Man was a huge number. Very good interaction with their parents…If Only You Would Listen is a great song, with some fine solos.

Fi Kuhn-Thompson and Keir Gilbert-Halladey have been well supported by their cast and their crew; and have once again produced an excellent YESPA show.

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