I WISH I had ‘Mr Schneebly’ as my substitute teacher when I was at school!
School of Rock is just one of those classic, ‘easy watch’ movies that is always on telly, so when I found out it was touring as a fully fledged musical I couldn’t resist.
An Andrew Lloyd Webber production, I couldn’t wait to get into Southampton’s Mayflower Monday night and be dazzled for a couple of hours.
With this show in particular, I was very curious to see how the hilarious movie could be transported to the stage.
Like the film, the stage show follows the life of Dewey Finn, desperate to make it as a rockstar from his best mate’s sofa.
Pretending to be former band mate turned substitute teacher Ned Schneebly at a fancy private school, in order to pay his rent, Dewey transforms a class of smart, sensible children into his new band, teaching them more than just science and math.
Combining the infamous storyline (and best quotes!) from the film with a mix of catchy, high-energy bops and emotional rock-infused numbers, complete with effortless set changes, School of Rock really did ‘Stick It to the Man’.
Taking on the role of Dewey, made famous by Jack Black, leading man Jake Sharp had very big shoes to fill.
With his energy, charisma and comedic timing Sharp made the role his own, while staying true to the beloved character with his passion for rock and roll.
But, of course, the stars of the show were the kids.
Not only was the acting superb, the pupils of Horace Green played instruments, sang, danced, and entertained the audience throughout, matching the talent and professionalism of their fellow cast members with years of experience.
Florence Moluluo won the hearts of the audience playing the role of Summer, especially opening Act Two with her rendition of ‘Time to Play’, with Alfie Morwood getting some of the biggest laughs opening night as the flamboyant band stylist Billy.
A special mention must be given to Rebecca Lock, playing secret rock-a-holic headteacher Rosalie Mullins, who stunned the audience with her beautiful ‘Where Did the Rock Go?’.
Ending with the iconic Battle of the Bands ‘School of Rock’ scene, the audience was left singing and wanting more, of course ending the spectacle with a standing ovation.
School of Rock will be at The Mayflower until July 23, for more information and tickets click here.
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