Ready for a rockin' stage show that will leave the entire family thoroughly entertained? This February and March, expect shredding guitars and pounding drums at the Shanghai Grand Theatre, as School of Rock – The Musical rips into town.
This highly praised Broadway and West End musical is based on the hilarious 2003 film by Richard Linklater, which features star comic Jack Black. With an original score from Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Glenn Slater, the cast of youngsters at the center of the story employ their prodigious melodic talents to rock it out on stage.
The musical follows the spirit and energy of the original film, based around Dewey Finn as an out-of-work rock singer and guitarist. Down on his luck, he decides to 'fake it till he makes it,' posing as a substitute music teacher for a prestigious prep school. After witnessing the musical prowess of his uptight straight-A students, Dewey decides to teach them what it means to cut loose, rock 'n' roll style. Their talents unearthed, he sets his sights on enlisting the group for a Battle of the Bands competition. The show will blow your mind with its electrifying musical score while delivering a core lesson on following your dreams and finding your purpose.
Making its debut on Broadway in December 2015 before then hitting London's West End in November 2016, the musical has received many accolades, including four Tony Awards. In addition to featuring three songs direct from the film, the stage show includes 12 original pieces, offering audiences a more rounded musical experience. Those who remember the movie's heavier compositions should know that the music will present a more theatrical approach to engage an audience of all ages.
If you enjoy the tunes that are belted out on stage, you can keep listening long after the musical ends. In 2015, a cast album including 20 tracks from the musical was released. In fact, consider downloading it before you go, so the kids can fully immerse themselves in the experience by singing along. With three years of touring experience, School of Rock – The Musical is a welltuned, professional showcase of a highly talented cast performing at their best. You will find yourself in awe of the sheer quality of musicianship, and marveling at the sounds they elicit from their instruments, ready to unleash your inner rocker by the time you're on the way home!
Feb 22-Mar 7, 1.30pm or 7.15pm. RMB80-1,180. Shanghai Grand Theatre, 300 Renmin Da Dao, near Huangpi Bei Lu. To book tickets, scan the QR code.
[All images via 247tickets]
