This post is written in partnership with Broadway in Portland. Complimentary tickets were received to facilitate a review. Opinions are 100% my own.
Portland – get ready! School is in session….the School of Rock that is! Andrew Lloyd Webbers’s hit musical (based on the 2003 film starring Jack Black) is in Portland at the Keller Auditorium now through May 26th, for a total of 8 shows – and you are definitely going to want to get your tickets!!
Last night, my son and I caught the opening night performance of this high-energy show that is TONS of fun! Henry and I were blown away by the talent on stage and had an incredible time.
Based on the hit film, School of Rock – The Musical is a hilarious new musical that follows Dewey Finn, (played by the hilarious and lovable Merritt David Janes), a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. There, he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. While teaching these pint-sized prodigies what it means to truly rock, Dewey falls for the school’s beautiful, but uptight headmistress, helping her rediscover the wild child within.
Dewey initially begins work with the kids to find redemption (mixed with a bit of revenge) at the Battle of the Bands. But along the way, the bond that develops between Dewey and the students is transformative – for all involved.
The chemistry on stage between Merritt David Janes and these amazingly gifted young performers is not only believable – but authentic. In a way I have yet to experience in any other show, it is clear from the audience that what is transpiring on-stage isn’t simply acting. The performers aren’t merely pretending to have fun….they’re actually having fun! The result is infectious (and deliciously charming.) This is a wonderfully feel-good show, and both of us loved it!
I can’t even begin to express how incredibly talented the group of children in this production are. They will absolutely blow you away. Not only did they deliver as actors – they also captivated the audience with their singing AND played their instruments live on stage. Each of these 12 immensely talented young performers can expect lengthy and successful careers. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them!
As a parent, I was inspired to listen to my children and encourage their unique interests and pursuits. As a teacher, I was reminded to allow FUN to have a place (and a prominent place!) in our daily schedule. My son left the theater wanting to spend more time practicing music. When a show both delights AND inspires – you know it’s a winner. I hope you’ll consider catching a performance of School of Rock during its run at the Keller Auditorium. (Keep scrolling for ticketing info!)
If you are not in the Portland Metro area, click ustour.SchoolOfRockTheMusical.
TICKET AND PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
School of Rock – The Musical will be at Portland’s Keller Auditorium for eight performances. The schedule for the Portland engagement is:
Tuesday, May 21 : 7:30pm
Wednesday, May 22: 7:30pm
Thursday, May 23: 7:30pm – ASL Interpreted Performance
Friday, May 24: 7:30pm – Audio Described Performance
Saturday, May 25: 2:00pm and 7:30pm
Sunday, May 26 : 1:00pm and 6:30pm – Open Caption Performance
Accessible seating for patrons using wheelchairs and their companion(s) is available at all performances. You can purchase wheelchair seating by phone, in person, and online. Ample seating chairs are available upon request. Assisted listening devices are available at all performances.
For additional information on ADA seating and services, personal assistance selecting accessible seats or for more information about accessibility, please contact the Broadway in Portland Box Office by phone at 503-417-0573 (M-F, 10am-5pm) or email Broadway@PortlandOpera.org
To Purchase Tickets:
www.BroadwayInPortland.com or call Portland’5 Box Office: 800-273-1530
*At time of posting, there are still plenty of tickets left for every show! Make sure to get yours! You don’t want to miss out! Grab your family and go see this show! See you at the theater!