School of Rock at New Wimbledon Theatre
Following the huge success of the hit film School of Rock that graced screens in 2003, the classic musical comedy that starred Jack Black in the lead role has been turned into a touring theatrical masterpiece with the careful expertise of its writer, Julian Fellowes, lyricist Glenn Slater and iconic British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.
This part of their UK tour is housed in the stunning Edwardian structure of the New Wimbledon Theatre. Curtains rise and the stage is set ablaze as clouds of dry ice surround the raspy vocals and anthemic guitar chords from a struggling rock band trying to make it big. Dewey Finn (Jake Sharp) forms part of this band and is duly fired for being “not good-looking enough”, so from here he takes refuge at his friend Ned Schneebly (Matthew Rowland) and overbearing girlfriend Patty Di Marco’s (Nadia Violet Johnson) house and embarks on a series of life-altering decisions.
Eager to start paying them some rent, Finn impersonates his friend to take on a supply teaching job at the prestigious prep school, Horace Green. Here he is met by a stiffened approach to teaching but also a classroom full of budding musicians, eager to let loose. So he helps them form a rock band and enter the Battle of the Bands, guided by his unconventional approach. Channeling perfect Jack Black vibes, Sharp gives some real depth to this role, showing off his sensitive side along with his wider enthusiasm to eternally rock out. The accompanying cast of school kids present as one huge, talented ensemble. There are gorgeous vocals from Souparnika Nair in her role as Tomika, spectacular drums from Emerson Sutton (Freddy) and Liza Deikalo (Marcy) and her fellow backing singers throwing serious dance moves and plait-swirling expertise.
Finn’s presence highlights the cracks in the esteemed school and parent expectations: we see a classroom of children eager to be heard as they perform a beautiful and emotive rendition of If Only You Would Listen, and the uptight school principal, Rosalie Mullins (Rebecca Lock), recaptures her youth as she not only rediscovers her love for rock ‘n’ roll, but also hints at a love interest for Finn.
The energy from the cast is utterly infectious and detailed set design from Anna Louizos really draws the audience in. With messages of hope and that it’s ok “not to be perfect”, this family-friendly School of Rock production is an absolute gem of musical theatre.
Ezelle Alblas
Photo: Paul Coltas
School of Rock is at New Wimbledon Theatre from 21st March until 26th March 2022. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
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