School of Rock – The Met, Bury

Without doubt The School of Rock is directorial triumph for Mark Rosenthal! Starting with the perfect casting of Alex Cohen in the lead role as dreamer, wannabe rock star, Dewey Finn. Once Cohen appeared, with the mannerisms and facial expressions of Jack Black (who starred in the 2003 film) down to a T, the audience knew they were in for a fun-filled night. Cohen’s energy, spectacular vocals and comic timing were superb throughout. Cohen’s acting was wholly believable as the unconventional rebel, who eventually changes attitudes in the prestigious Horace Green School. 

Tracey Dawson, as the Head Teacher of the elite, $50,000 a year school, perfectly contrasted Cohen’s anarchic character of Dewey Finn. Clearly a gifted actor, Dawson portrayed the different characteristics of Rosalie Mullins as she journeyed from uptight, stern, academic professional to an individual transformed by an inner passion for rock music. Dawson’s solo, ‘Where did the Rock go?’ was effective in conveying a sense of nostalgia for a carefree time.

2023 sees the 20th anniversary of the release of the film of School of Rock. The story sees Dewey Finn sacked from his rock band. Out of work and unable to pay the rent, Dewey poses as a substitute teacher in place of his best friend Ned. Dewey instils an appreciation of rock music into a class of high-achieving, academic students. Without the knowledge of the Head Teacher, Dewey prepares the class to compete in the Battle of the Bands.

Dewey, as substitute teacher, gets confused and comically says, “There is no ‘i’ in …participation.” This sentiment of working together extends to the incredible team that clearly make up PADOS Theatre Group. From the warm welcome extended by the Front of House Society volunteers to the professional looking, creatively designed programme by Jessica McEvoy, the dedication and attention to detail was obvious from the first moment. The lighting (by Rob Armstrong) and use of large LED screen were used to incredible effect and perfectly distinguished the scenes between smart Horace Green School and the grungy stage for the rock band. I particularly liked the use of the live camera projection on to the big screen, for the final School of Rock band performance, giving the audience a sense of attending an authentic rock concert. Claire Hartley (Stage Manager) and team ensured that changes of scene were well managed and did not interrupt the flow of the story. All credit to Musical Director, Emma Price: the cast were all clearly confident with the lyrics and harmonies – a well-rehearsed cast shone confidently on stage throughout. To say this was opening night was incredibly impressive, such was the chemistry between the cast, as well as the precise comic timing – audiences would have believed that this show had been running for weeks! Any minor hiccups were barely perceptible as the experienced cast members carried on and dealt with these in their stride.

An incredibly talented group of 14 children superbly portrayed the class of fifth graders whom Dewey enlists to perform in the Battle of the Bands. The characterisation of each young performer was finely honed, all remaining true to their individual on-stage personalities throughout. Darcie Moore played the character of Summer exceptionally well. Moore perfectly captured the characteristics of a student initially motivated by grades and gold stars, to a student who fully appreciates Rock music and becomes the responsible Band Manager. Lorcan Pi-Mulderrig needs mentioning for his impressive behind-the-head electric guitar playing skills. Lilia Kirk, who played the character Tomika, not only sang a captivating rendition of Amazing Grace, but adeptly conveyed how music transformed the character’s confidence and social skills. With Ashleigh Smith on bass, Charlotte Lewis on keyboard and Blake Rosenthal on drums, these young individual showed that they are quadruple threats – singers, actors, musicians and dancers. The group number, ‘If Only You Would Listen’ was very moving, well done to all the young performers.

Helen Wilkinson (Choreographer) ensured that the choreography was creative, expressive and enhanced the storytelling. The dance routines were all well executed.

Overall, this production was: fun, fierce and phenomenal! A must-see! Rock on PADOS!

Playing until Saturday 29th April, https://themet.org.uk/event/school-of-rock/

Reviewer: Emma Wild

Reviewed: 26th April 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★