School of Rock

Playing to Covid Capacity crowds at Koorliny Arts Centre, School of Rock is a celebration of a show with a hard-working, well-drilled and talented cast. Slick and nicely presented both the cast and audience have a great time.

Based on the film of the same name, School of Rock- The Musical tells of Dewey Finn who accepts a relief teaching position at an exclusive prep school by usurping his housemate’s identity. Ill-prepared to reach, he turns his class into a band to compete in Battle of the Bands - in the process allowing the students to discover themselves.

Callum Presbury delivers probably his best performance to date as Dewey Finn, inhabiting the role beautifully and with conviction - and singing superbly (with an amazing falsetto). Very much a starring role, and rarely offstage, he anchors the show very well. A great casting choice from director Stephen Carr.

Grace Johnson is lovely as school principal Rosalie Mullins. While she is probably the world’s youngest school principal, she is nevertheless very convincing and we get to hear her beautiful classical soprano, which is a joy. Alex Hutchings brings great character to the role of the “real” Ned Schneebly, while Asha Perry is great as his girlfriend Patty Di Marco, unfairly set up as the villain.

School of Rock depends on a great cast of kids and this team is impressive. Kiara Chidzley brings lovely confidence to the outspoken Summer, relative newcomer Jordi Askew brings amazing vocals to the role of Tomika, Logan Bin Bakar shows amazing drumming skills in the role of Freddie. with guitarist Jack Dudek showing great expertise and making a promising acting debut as Zack. Eli Dale brings flair to the role of Billy, Tuppence Cornelius is lovely as Katie - having learnt to play bass guitar for the role, while Ash Brady is strong as Lawrence and picked up keyboard for this show.

Strong performances also from Peregrine Carr (Mason), Charlotte Sampson (Shonelle), Indigo Fraser (Madison), Amelia Tourtouris (Sophie) and Matthew Ballantine (James), as well as a motivated children’s ensemble. Opening weekend saw Breanna Campbell unable to perform as Marcy due to isolation requirements, but her role was well covered by the ensemble.

A strong adult ensemble plays multiple roles (with some great versatility), with standouts including Nicole George’s jaded Mrs Sheinkopf, Tadgh Lawrence’s great opening song and Bradley Towton and Christian Dichiera’s parenting team. 

Musical Director Megan Anne has guided her onstage and offstage musicians capably, with the live music onstage and the five-piece offstage band playing well, and vocals generally very good. Ashleigh Winter’s choreography is fun and well executed.