2/29/2024 - "School of Rock"

On February 29, March 1 and 2, the high school music department rocked out on stage with the much-beloved stage adaptation of “School of Rock.” Based on the hit 2003 film, “School of Rock” follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who is down on his luck. After Dewey is kicked out of his band and threatened with eviction, his fortunes take a turn for the better when he intercepts a phone call meant for his roommate, Ned Schneebly. He quickly decides to make a bit of cash and pose as Ned to take up a substitute teaching job at Horace Green, a prestigious prep school. He is horrified to discover that his straight-laced and straight A students haven’t a clue about rock and roll, and he makes it his mission to educate them. Dewey realizes they are a talented bunch, and he decides to mold them into a rock band and enter the upcoming Battle of the Bands competition. However, he needs to do all of this away from the prying eyes of the school’s principal, Rosalie Mullins. Along the way, Dewey finds romance, self-worth, a proper job and, most importantly, he teaches the children and their parents the beauty of rock!

Musical rehearsals were held from January through February directly after school in our auditorium. Students participated in activities and exercises to get them used to using the space on stage and interacting with other actors. Students also participated in choreography rehearsals with choreographer Maria Barresi to enhance the action on stage. Our sound technician, Elliott Lester, also worked tirelessly to amplify not only the students on stage, but the instruments on stage and in the pit. We thank Elliott for helping to showcase our students in their best possible light.

This year, five of our students embarked on a never been done before feat at Whitesboro - they learned how to play real live instruments and formed a rock band that actually plays on stage! Matt Brinck (guitar), Gavyn Burgdoff (drums), Avery Davis (keyboard), Matia Rossi (bass) and Bradford Webster (guitar) all worked together once a week after school for “band” practice, learning several songs for the show on their instruments. These students rose to the challenge and even received certificates for graduating “band camp.”

“School of Rock” featured a cast of 40 student actors, 10 student stage/lighting crew members and many set construction and design crew students. The performances were well-attended and well-received, and by the end of each show, everyone felt as if they were at a real life rock concert! Seeing the show come to life is a memory we will not soon forget. The powerful impact of the arts on these students’ well-being was truly evident through this show. We are overwhelmed with joy knowing that our students will have this memory to fondly look back on. Many thanks are extended to all who were involved in the making and performing of our show. It takes a village to put on productions of this scale, and “School of Rock” could not have happened without all involved!