Class is in session as Broadway’s "School of Rock" makes the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts its temporary classroom. And trust me, the syllabus is something students of all ages will enjoy.
Based on the 2003 comedy starring Jack Black, "School of Rock" centers around Dewey Finn, a loveable if someone irresponsible guy who lives for rock and roll. While he lives and breathes music, typical adult responsibilities do NOT come naturally to him. Things like having an average 9-to-5 job or paying bills on time are not his priority – and it is certainly starting to get on his roommate’s nerves.
Not only that, but he has recently been fired his beloved band. But when he accepts a gig as a long-term substitute teacher for a local boarding school – all while pretending to be said roommate – he uses this as a chance to instill his profound love of music in a younger generation. Naturally, hilarity ensues.
Everyone has a movie or two that, no matter when it’s on TV or no matter what part it’s at, you have to stop and watch it. For me, whenever I am flipping through cable channels on a lazy evening and I come across "School of Rock," I drop whatever I’m doing and finish the movie. And for good reason. Obviously, you watch the movie to see Jack Black’s comedic chops on full display, but you find yourself equally charmed by the profound talent of each of the students he mentors. It’s a story about the impact of teachers that touches you just as much as watching "Dead Poets Society," with undoubtedly way less tears.
Although I am a big fan of the movie, however, I knew next to nothing about the musical version until Tuesday evening’s performance – and I wanted to keep it that way, I thought that hearing the songs fresh, with the exception of the songs featured in the film, would make me appreciate the musical version all the more. I imagine that most of the theatergoers in Uihlein Hall last night were like me: fans of the movie, strangers to the musical. But after Tuesday evening's performance, I can proudly declare that "I Pledge Allegiance to the Band."
"School of Rock" wisely doesn’t deviate too far from the Hollywood plot that makes it so beloved – same characters, same jokes, same twists and turns. The musical version keeps what you loved about the movie and perfectly enhances it.
How is it enhanced? By the riveting score of the incomparable Andrew Lloyd Weber, as the theater icon can certainly add "School of Rock" to his long list of extraordinary musicals. With this show, he successfully uses the already great songs from the movie as inspiration to compose several new songs that are impactful – and yes, full of exceptional rock and roll. In other words, he took something great and made it better. I mean, how could he not? He’s Andrew Lloyd Webber after all. I’m in no way surprised.
That being said, there’s no denying that sometimes Andrew Lloyd Webber’s biggest inspiration comes off as Andrew Lloyd Webber. There were moments during "Variation 7/Children of Rock" in the first act where I could have sworn I was listening to a song from "Jesus Christ Superstar" instead of "School of Rock." Not that I’m complaining; "Variation 7/Children of Rock" was easily one of my favorite songs of the night, despite the not-so-hidden reference to Webber’s previous work (I just so happen to love "Jesus Christ Superstar").
But I know what you’re all thinking: Enough about that, how was Dewey? It goes without saying Rob Colletti has some pretty big shoes to fill as Dewey Finn. Everyone seeing "School of Rock" in Milwaukee this week, myself included, is going to inevitably compare him to Jack Black. Talk about pressure. But rest assured, he is beyond capable of handling this larger-than-life role. Colletti’s interpretation of this infectious character is a joy to watch; every audience member can easily see that this is a role he thoroughly enjoys playing, which makes watching him all the more entertaining. It also helps that he knows his way around a guitar.
Equally impressive is Lexie Dorsett Sharp as Rosalie Mullins, the outwardly strict and disciplined headmistress with a genuine heart of gold and a hidden passion for rock and roll. Without trying to sound like a teacher’s pet, her solo number "Where Did the Rock Go?" was one of the show’s most heartfelt moments – and a number that Dorsett Sharp pulls off beautifully.
As wonderful as both Murphy and Dorsett Sharp are, the real stars of the show are the students. Simply put, these kids rock. Each performer consistently proves that they are a quadruple threat. Their acting is genuine, their singing voices are strong, their dancing is flawless and I still can’t believe kids that young can play instruments that well. "You’re In the Band" and "Stick it to the Man" were easily the best numbers of the night, as these memorable songs allowed the kids’ diverse musical talents to take their rightful place at center stage. Extra credit goes to Gilberto Moretti-Hamilton and Phoenix Schuman; they come dangerously close to the show with their epic portrayals of Freddy and Zack.
Long story short: If you love the 2003 film, you are sure to not only enjoy the musical interpretation, but you’ll be treated to catchy songs performed impeccably by a delightful and energetic cast. "School of Rock" certainly proves that rock n roll is here to stay.
You too can climb to the top of Mount Rock by catching performances of "School of Rock" at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, running now through Sunday, Nov. 26. For more information, visit the Marcus Center's website.
