Join us as our talented BSB students bring Dewey Finn’s journey and his class’s story to life.
Cheer them on in an electrifying Battle of the Bands!
Synopsis
Welcome to School of Rock – where the classroom gets loud and the rules get bent (just a little!). Meet Dewey Finn, an out-of-work musician who dreams of rock stardom but can’t even afford to pay his rent. Desperate for money, he gets a job as a substitute teacher at a prestigious preparatory school by impersonating his roommate.
Dewey’s teaching style? Let’s just say it’s unconventional… But when he discovers that his students are incredibly talented young musicians, he comes up with a crazy idea: turn them into a rock band and enter the Battle of the Bands! Suddenly, Maths class is replaced by guitar solos and homework involves listening to rock music.
There’s just one small problem: Dewey has to keep his plan a secret from a strict principal, sceptical parents and pretty much everyone else. Can he pull it off and show his students – and himself – that sometimes breaking the mould is the best way to shine? Find out in this hilarious and heartwarming musical that hits all the right notes.
Plot Synopsis
Act 1
Dewey Finn is a guitarist for the band No Vacancy but his over-thetop antics and improvised solo get him kicked out. The next day, Patty pressures Ned, her boyfriend and Dewey’s former rocker friend, to demand the rent from their roommate. Dewey claims he’ll pay by winning Battle of the Bands but when he goes to rehearsal, he discovers he’s been replaced. He heads to work at a record store but is promptly fired for being late.
Dewey then answers a phone call from Rosalie Mullins, the principal of the prestigious Horace Green Preparatory School. She is calling to offer Ned a substitute teaching position. There’s only one solution for Dewey – pose as Ned and accept the job.
On his first day at school, Dewey is late. Rosalie welcomes him to the campus and informs him of their elite expectations. Unfortunately, Dewey has only one item on his curriculum: recess. Patty gives Dewey an ultimatum – he has thirty days to pay his rent or he’ll have to leave.
The next day, Dewey overhears Rosalie and the students playing music. Suddenly, he realises he must start a band with the students to win Battle of the Bands. He assigns instruments and roles to the students. The band is almost complete but Tomika hasn’t said a word and Laura is certain she’s not cool enough to be in the band. Each student faces their own struggles at home. Dewey writes a song for the students while the teachers, including Gabe Brown, begin to speculate about the new music teacher. Dewey asks Rosalie for permission to take the students on a field trip but the school administration denies it. Dewey teaches the kids how to “stick it to the man” and the band sneaks out for the first round of competition. They rock the stage and qualify for Battle of the Bands.
Act 2
The band is in full rehearsal mode but there’s one problem: parents’ meetings fall right before the competition. In a moment of inspiration, Tomika surprises everyone with a soulful rendition of Amazing Grace. The band now has a frontwoman! Dewey asks Rosalie out and during their date at the Roadhouse, she reveals her love for Stevie Nicks and her desire for freedom despite her position as principal. She comes around and permits the field trip.
The next day, Patty relays a letter to Ned from Horace Green and leaves for work. Ned realises the letter is a payment from the school. Just as he’s about to call the school to clear up the mistake, Dewey realises it’s time to face the music.
At the parents’ meeting, the parents are shocked to discover their children have swapped books for music. Dewey reminds them how incredible their kids are. Patty bursts in and exposes Dewey’s true identity. The parents confront Dewey but the kids sneak away to compete in Battle of the Bands.
The kids convince Dewey that he’s changed their lives. They head to the competition and perform Zack’s song. Dewey reminds them that performing isn’t about perfection – it’s about rocking out with heart. The parents arrive as the kids deliver a show-stopping performance. No Vacancy wins but the crowd erupts in support of the School of Rock. Class dismissed!
Character Reflections
Lucy – Rosalie
My character’s name is Rosalie Mullins, the headteacher of Horace Green. I enjoy playing this character because she is strict on the outside but truly nervous and genuine within. One of the best things about this play is making new friends and having lots of fun on stage filled with laughter and joy.
Franz – Dewey
The most fun thing about playing Dewey is learning to mimic playing instruments. It’s a big role but I’m excited to take it on. Dewey reminds me of myself because we share a love for bands like Nirvana, Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, making it easier to connect with the character. His biggest moment is when he finally performs his well-deserved guitar solo.
Iris – Patty
Playing Patty has been an amazing experience! She’s bossy and determined, which makes her so fun to portray. Her biggest moment is confronting Dewey about unpaid rent, adding drama to the show. The best part has been the teamwork and laughter during rehearsals.
Petra – Billie
Billie is a diva and playing her has been a joy. I’ve loved sharing laughs with the cast and celebrating our hard work. Despite initial doubts, I’m proud of our final performance and hope the audience enjoyed it as much as we did!
Jasper – Freddie
Freddie is rebellious and full of energy. Playing the drums made me feel like I was in a real band. This production has been an amazing team effort and I’ve loved every moment of it.
Janu – Ned
Playing Ned has been a fantastic experience. Ned’s journey from being overshadowed to standing up for himself is powerful. I enjoyed working with the cast and feel this production has improved my confidence and teamwork skills.
Ella – Tomika
Tomika starts shy but transforms into a confident singer with Mr Schneebly’s encouragement. I loved channelling my inner Tomika and performing with my friends in this unforgettable journey.
Minay – Laura
Laura is an introverted keyboardist who gains confidence through Dewey’s support. Playing her has been inspiring and I hope the audience enjoys the show as much as we’ve enjoyed creating it.
Arinola – Katie
Katie, the bass player, is energetic and passionate. Playing her was thrilling and I loved working with the cast. Our teamwork has made this experience unforgettable.
All Cast and Crew
Year 6: Zoe-Ellie, Gaia, India, Benjamin, Aemilia, Noemi, Isabella, Caroline
Year 7: Nicholas, Jasper, William, Iris, Dorothy, Sabina, Alexandra, Sofi
Year 8: Clara, Iris, Emilia, Ella, Delilah
Year 9: Fraser, Leo, Arinola, Minay, Franz, Lucy, Aidan
Year 10: Finlay, Janu
Year 11: Petra
Band
Vocals: Sofia, Jessica
Guitar: Ana
Keys: Olivia, Soyoon
Drums: Leila, Hemin
Bass: Ben
Staff: Celia Wrighton (Vocals), Lucy Harrison (Vocals), Scott Allsop (Guitar), Ben Roach (Saxophone/Descant Recorder), ConnieMarie Mahaffey (Clarinet/Descant Recorder), Sarah Porter (Clarinet/Treble Recorder), Jenna Batson (Treble Recorder)
Backstage
Eleni (Props and Costume Manager), Ilinca (Stage Manager), Emma (Mic Co-ordinator), Elyse, Derin, Nieve, Maya, Sofia, Edward
Performing Arts Staff Team
Director: Liana Stanusi
Musical Director: Lynne Sharp
Assistant Director: Cathy Sinclair
Choreography: Eva Cliffe, Carl Helps, Lucy Harrison
Set Design: David Burke
Costume Design: Imogen Wilkinson, Mike Serbu-Nixon
