School of Rock
Touring production seen at the Bristol Hippodrome.
This is a show packed with high energy performances - where a cast (old and young) are clearly having a ball on stage. The storyline, albeit shallow, gives everyone a chance to shine through show stopping musical numbers.
When 'wannabe' rock guitarist Dewey Finn (Jake Sharp) assumes the role of stand-in teacher at Horace Green school he sets in train a series of events that take a class of fourth form school pupils on a journey of 'rock discovery' which also helps them discover something new in themselves. Sharp, infuses every scene with a remarkable energy and great comdy.
You can't watch this show and not be impressed by the skill, energy and sheer enthusiasm of the young cast (12 each night from a group of 42); whether they are singing, dancing, playing instruments or, in one case vigorously swinging plaited hair with unerring ease! Their enjoyment is infectious. It keeps the audience engaged, while slick scene changes make transitions between Dewey's bedroom, to the classroom, to 'battle of the bands' stage seamless; helping to keep the show dynamic and very watchable (despite it's length - almost 3 hours with interval)
One for the whole family to enjoy.
Paula Luke