October 10, 2023
By Rachel Scofield
Photos from Pickerington Community Theatre
There is one weekend left to catch the Pickerington Community Theatre (PCT) production of School of Rock – The Musical, based on the hit 2003 comedy film starring Jack Black.
The musical follows Dewey Finn (E. Scott Harvey), a failed rock star who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school and forms a band of talented students to compete in the Battle of the Bands.
Adapting the film script by Julian Fellowes (creator of Downton Abbey), the performance features classic rock along with original music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Glenn Slater, including: “School of Rock”, “Teacher’s Pet”, and “The Legend of the Rent”.
Director Mandy Tuttle leads the production’s hardworking actors and crew.
“Over 120 hours of rehearsal time has been invested in this show, and we believe the audience will think the investment is well worth the result,” Tuttle said. “Putting together two whole rock bands (one with kids 10 to 14 who actually play their instruments onstage) and casting over a dozen adults (who each play at least three roles as well as acting as stagehands, stage managers, instrumentalists, and choreographer) makes for a show bustling with energy!”
The show is designated as “PG-13” due to some “peppery language and a couple of saucy innuendos” but the themes should resonate with most audience members ages 10-100.
“For the younger audience, it’s an introduction to classic rock, sparking interest in keeping great music alive for a new generation,” Tuttle said. “For the older folks, we’re hoping the music will take them back to a time when there were timeless hooks and melodies that make you want to get up and move your feet.”
PCT’s production of School of Rock – The Musical will run for three more performances, October 13 and 14 at 8 pm and October 15 a 2 pm. The shows will be held at the Violet Township Community Theater located at the Wigwam Event Center (10190 Blacklick-Eastern Road).
Tickets will be sold at the door, but space is limited. To ensure your seats, purchase the tickets online at the PCT website or call the box office at (614) 508-0036. The prices are $19.00 per adult. Tickets for seniors 55 and older and children are $17.00.
