New Hall School in Chelmsford, Essex presented a dazzling performance of ‘School of Rock’ in its Eaton Theatre, based on the Paramount movie written by Mike White, by arrangement with LW Entertainment Ltd. The drama production involved over 100 talented students and staff, whom all shared an important role in this spectacular show, from volunteers assisting backstage with costumes and makeup, to the phenomenal cast of students in Years 7 all the way through to Year 13. The cast performed three sold out shows from Thursday 5 February to Saturday 7 February, as well as a special preview for New Hall’s Boarding Community. 

The show was a remarkable success, with the huge efforts and work that went into preparing the show clear for all to see. The live band, formed of student and staff musicians, supported the cast with live music, effortlessly complementing the cast performances. The audience was filled with a riveting energy, consisting of encouraging parents, students and staff, all of whom were just as engaged as the incredible cast, filling the theatre with an undeniable shared enthusiasm and thrill! Directors Ms Wade and Mr Bond described their mission behind the musical, ‘We wanted to have fun, whilst stretching and challenging young people in terms of skills and self-confidence. From the remarkable audition process, with students in costumes and “in character”, the energy and professionalism have been a joy.’ 

The audience witnessed a fabulous performance with likeable characters, humoristic storylines and quirky one-liners. In her third lead role in New Hall’s Drama productions, Alice, an enthusiastic dancer and singer, played Rosalie Mullins, the headteacher of the fictional school of Horace Green. Alice shared ‘The Drama Department accepts all for who they are, they are always so supportive and so kind and caring. We’ve become a tight knit cast, and the confidence from that and feeling of belonging in a place is so good for us students.’  Year 11 student Annalise, shared of her experience backstage, ‘The School of Rock is all about joy, teamwork and being yourself’.’ The production of the musical not only included rehearsals, but consisted of cast and crew members spending weeks building the fantastic set, creating posters and preparing all scene changes to make the performance as seamless and professional as possible.  

The School’s Principal, Mrs Jeffrey, commented, ‘This was an action packed, vibrant show full of joy, full of great music and dancing. It was wonderful to experience a show in which every one of the many students performed to the best of their abilities while sharing their enjoyment with the packed audience.’ New Hall’s Drama Department averages three productions a year, including one aimed at KS3, one involving all Year 6 students, and a large-scale production involving the whole of Senior Divisions, which is typically a musical. In addition to starring as a cast member, students also have the opportunity to be part of the crew, learning the ropes when it comes to sound, lighting and staging, as well as volunteer backstage, helping with wardrobe, make up, and set design.