School of Rock – The Musical

The Churcher’s College Lower School Production this year was ‘School of Rock’, a musical based on the cult Jack Black film with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber about the empowering force of music on a group of students at Horace Green prep school.  The Churcher’s pupils proved that every one of them has an inner rock god as they air-guitared their way through the production.

One parent summed it up in two words: “Quite exceptional!”

The children in the production showed they are ridiculously entertaining performers whose infectious delight got the crowd jumping with joy.  It’s hard to believe the students are all aged between 11 and 14 (Years 7 to 9) with a standout performance of explosive energy from leading man Oliver Fogelin as Dewey and a highly polished act from the preposterously talented leading lady, Matilda Shapland as headmistress Miss Rosalie Mullins.   Not forgetting the fist-pumping performance of would be lead-guitarist Zack (Roscoe Davey); the unexpectedly beautiful voice of shy Tomika (Milly Greenall); the flamboyant portrayal of fashion-mad Billy (Jackson Wilks); and the excellent delivery of the class ‘smarty-pants’ Summer (Freya Davey).  In fact, the entire cast delivered an amazing show, too many to mention all by name but all should receive gold stars including the dancers, singers, musicians, and back stage crew.  

Special mentions must go to Stacey Carty, Director and Choreographer, who praised the students “hard work, commitment and attention to detail throughout the rehearsal process”; Musical Director, Helen Purchase who provided the backbone to the production; and Production Manager and Old Churcherian, Chris Pellett who helped ensure those with ambitions behind-the-scenes also got involved.

‘School of Rock’ proved a big success with four sold out performances which took place between March 19th and 21st to parents, friends and guests.   Local elderly VIPs from Petersfield care homes joined the audience for the Thursday matinee performance followed by tea and cake and a chat with the cast.