Rock on to the Beat of Stage 284's 'School of Rock'

Rock got no rhythm, rock got no rhyme.

Stage 284 is performing the electrifying musical School of Rock. Based on the 2003 film, the story follows washed-up musician Dewey Finn, who impersonates a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. He forms his students into a rock band to compete in a Battle of the Bands competition.

Rock on! Stage 284’s School of Rock pumps wild energy, upbeat music, and an epic concert performance! School of Rock has always been one of my favorite films and I was so excited when it became a musical. Not only does it influence the power of music, but it delivers a meaningful lesson about finding your voice.

Stage 284’s School of Rock is split into two equally talented casts: the Honor Rolling Stones and Blackboard Sabbath. I saw both performances and each cast has tremendous unique interpretations. The teamwork, energy, and comical brilliance excel from everyone.

Mark Damon (Honor Rolling Stones) and Cole Lundquist (Blackboard Sabbath) fill the rock ‘n roll shoes of Jack Black’s legendary performance as Dewey Finn. Both actors' energy is off the music charts fantastic. I was laughing out loud at their witty humor. Dewey has his flaws, but his mentorship to help his students is heartwarming. He helps them discover their true potential.

No small part exists in theater. The supporting cast plays various roles from students, teachers, parents, and other band members. Everyone is having a blast. All the characters have something in common; to be understood.

Melissa Reda (Honor Rolling Stones) and Mariah Mulcahy Hanzel (Blackboard Sabbath) were highlights as the tightly wound Principal Rosalie Mullins. Both were funny and had splendid voices. You can just see the steam shooting out of their ears.

Brianna Randazza, Chelsea Callahan (Honor Rolling Stones), Annie Lovelace, and Dana Murray (Blackboard Sabbath) are hysterical as Dewey's roommates Ned Schneebly and Patty DiMarco.

The kid ensemble for each cast is nothing short of extraordinary. The young cast members had excellent interpretations of their roles. Dewey’s students transform from hesitant and timid into leaders who guide themselves and even the adults. They were skillful, playing instruments like guitar, piano, and drums live onstage.

Stage 284 has advanced in its technical side, incorporating an impressive set design, enhanced by fog machines, dynamic lighting, amplified sound, and vibrant costumes that bring the rock-and-roll spirit to life on stage.

It feels like you’re attending a concert! A live orchestra plays Andrew Lloyd Webber’s songs, including ‘You’re in the Band,’ ‘Stick It to the Man,’ ‘If Only You Would Listen,’ and the epic ‘School of Rock’ competition. As a long-time fan of the song ‘Stick It to the Man,’ its infectious energy made a standout performance.

A lot of tremendous hard work brought the School of Rock to the stage. Director Katie Clarke-Robertson and assistant director Noël Cody Mumford encouraged their cast with strong trust to be their best. School of Rock isn't just a musical—it's a concert experience that celebrates the power of music and the importance of listening and finding our voices.

The audience reaction was a show of its own, with people laughing, applauding, and dancing in their seats. School of Rock is hysterically funny! I laughed the most when Dewey and the students took a Mission Impossible route to sneak out of the school. Theater tests us in several ways, and comedy is one of them.

Catch Stage 284’s School of Rock at the Community House performing in Hamilton until March 23. It’s a fun time for the whole family. You may end up joining the dance party (like I did).