Rock the house and make a scene
And crank the amps to 17
And scream until their ears are shot
They all can kiss your you-know-what
Do everything they ever tried to ban …

It’s my favorite musical. End of. Sure, Heathers is right up there but School of Rock has that extra oomph and feelgood factor. And holds the message that no matter what people say otherwise, you can do anything if you really want to.

School of Rock explores and fulfils the dreams of failing rock guitarist, Dewey Finn, who himself, poses as a teacher and reaches the kids in his (illegal) care. Wanting to take part in a rock band competition, Dewey dupes his pupils into forming a band but in truth, shows them the way to be themselves and make their parents listen.

Script Youth Musical Theatre Company are top quality, having seen them a few times now, and the friendliness and welcome of their Front of House is always second to none. Youth theatre is so important. These are the performers of tomorrow and many will go onto bigger things. Even if it’s simply amateur theatre, these beginnings are massive. Where would any company be without the talent nurtured in youth societies like Script? However, looking at the programme, many of those on stage here are already in the prestigious BOA Academy, meaning the quality was high indeed.

In the role of Dewey Finn was Harry Robbins who lived the part from start to finish. I’ve seen this show in both the West End and on tour and Harry was Dewey. Every mannerism, every turn of phrase, every reaction. Excellent. Then, co-starring as Rosalie Mullins was the brilliant Evie Rice. Where Did the Rock Go is such an emotional and poignant song and Evie nailed it completely. And supporting well were Finlay Laidlaw (Ned) and Erin Mooney (Patty) as Dewey’s long-suffering friends (Well, Ned is his friend, at least).

Then there are the kids Dewey tells, “You’re in the Band.” Ruby Edmonds (Zach — Guitar), Kadeena Glendon (Lawrence — Keys), Chloe Perkins (Katy — Bass) and Alex Brown (Freddie — Drums). Each equipped themselves excellently with some learning the instruments specifically for this show. It’s the stuff dreams are made of. Wonderful.

But a band isn’t just about those performing to the crowd. Maddie Howard (Marcy), Erin Phillips (Shonelle), Leo Stubbington (Mason), Isla Thorp (Sophie), Lexie Shaw (Amy), Darci Rice (Maddison), Zachary Duke (Billy) and Eddie Lawlor (James) were all tremendous being the band’s crew. As manager and class swot, we had Mya Cartwright who portrayed Summer to perfection. Last time I saw School of Rock the role was played by a Voice Kids finalist and Mya was more than equal for Script, particularly with Time to Play. Then finally from the kids, we had Gracie Reynolds as shy Tomika, a girl who doesn’t fit in until having the bravery to show what an outstanding voice she has. All about reaching for those dreams again. And Gracie proved what incredible vocals she has, especially during the reprise of If Only You Would Listen. Little nudge, Gracie — Voice Kids 2024. Apply now.

As the parents, teachers, and other ensemble parts we had the older Script students: Robin Lawlor, Corey Mayne, Sam McCormack, Aimie Whillis, Ella Gilson-Brookes, Ollie Roberts, Bethany Sall, Sam Williams, Molly Fitzpatrick and Zachariah Scrivens were all great in their roles.

School of Rock was directed by Louise Farmer with musical direction from Chris Corcoran and choreography shared between Molly Chamberlain and Maddie Fleming. I can’t praise production highly enough for bringing the original template alive. Brilliant show and great script from Julian Fellows. Then, if that isn’t the elite of theatre, you have music from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Glenn Slater. So many fantastic tunes: When You Climb to the Top of Mount Rock, If Only You Would Listen, Teachers Pet, all before you even consider the phenomenal Stick it to the Man.

My favourite musical and Script smashed it. You can tell when I’ve enjoyed a show. So much that I lose track of time writing the review, overrun by 200 words and end up burning my dinner.

Cheers,

Antony N Britt

* Photos blatantly lifted from Script’s social media.