School of Rock the musical: Encouraging everyone to be in the band

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With guitar riffs and a strong beat, School of Rock reminds everyone music can be the instrument to find life’s true passions.

Years ago, the Jack Black movie, School of Rock, entertained large audiences with its endearing story of a misguided substitute teacher who inspires uptight children to rock. School of Rock‘s musical form is Andrew Lloyd Webber’s interpretation of the well-known story. In the stage version, the kids definitely are the ones who encourage everyone stick it to the man.

Currently on a national tour, stopping at Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, School of Rock, the musical, appeals to a broader audience. On opening night, the theater was filled with more families than the typical Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando performance. It was refreshing to see so many younger faces enjoying a night of theater. With so many young, talented performers on stage, maybe these younger audience members were even more inspired to explore their musical talents.

An old belief that children outshine adults on stage is definitely true in this performance. The younger performers steal every number. In addition to singing, dancing and acting, the younger performers play all their own instruments on stage. Their talent is truly inspiring.

School of Rock, the musical, photo by Matthew Murphy, provided by Dr. Phillips Center

Still, those characters are relatable to everyone watching the show. From the heavier kid who wanted to be popular or the child who wasn’t good enough, everyone knew (or was) one of those kids. These classroom character types can be found in schools today or years ago. Still, the focus isn’t on where they start. Rather, the musical’s message is that these characters learn to believe that more is possible, and maybe others can too.

In the second act, when Tomika (played by Gianna Harris) finds her voice, the audience enthusiastically responds. Her moment resonates so well. While her stunning voice fills the theater, the moment reminds everyone to believe in themselves. She, like many people, have the ability. Believing in the ability and sharing it with others requires courage.

Dewey (aka substitute teacher Mr. Schneebly) is the confused guide to kids’ musical greatness. Played by Rob Colletti, Dewey has a good heart, but is a little misguided. Like the big, fun guy you love at parties, people can overlook his compassionate side. The most endearing moment is when Dewey admonishes all the disgruntled parents about how they discount their children’s talents. The lines are delivered with conviction and belief. While the funnier moments get the bigger responses, this subtle message is a reminder to anyone who deals with children to always encourage a child’s passion.

School of Rock, the musical, photo by Matthew Murphy, provided by Dr. Phillips Center

Another moment that resonates with the older audiences members is Rosalie’s song “Where Did the Rock Go?” Going through a roller coaster of emotions in a single song, Lexie Dorsett Sharp is completely relatable to many people who have lost their passion. Her voice conveys both vulnerability and conviction in a single song. Whether it is music, like in School of Rock, or something else, the youthful passion doesn’t have to be erased with adult responsibilities.

While the big rock numbers like “Stick It to the Man” and “School of Rock” engage the audience, the poignant theme of “If Only You Would Listen” is a tender plea to the kids’ parents. So often parents want what’s best for their children, but overlook what the children want for themselves. As so many families watched this performance, it would be curious to see if those sentiments impacted them.

School of Rock, the musical, photo by Matthew Murphy, provided by Dr. Phillips Center

Some subtle moments can be missed during the performance. For example, look around for the parents rocking it out in the audience during the kids’ concert. Those little details can be overlooked during the big production numbers.

While School of Rock is driven by the performances, the music itself can’t be overlooked. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score has a few notes that will call back to some of his iconic pieces. Granted, this musical doesn’t have the grandeur of The Phantom of the Opera or the whimsy of Cats, but the music has more intricacies than expected. Sure, the guitars are the stars, but the quiet ballads are striking.

School of Rock, the musical, photo by Matthew Murphy, provided by Dr. Phillips Center

School of Rock is an enjoyable musical. The audience needs to be invested in the performance. At the final concert, I would encourage people to clap along and enjoy the moment. This theater performance isn’t meant to be stuffy or boring.

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Everyone may not be ready to “Stick It to the Man” after the performance of School of Rock, but they will leave inspired to be more. From finding a passion to believing in themselves, the lessons learned at this school are meant to be remember long after the school bell rings.