New Wimbledon Theatre – until 26th March 2022
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
5*****
When Dewey (Jake Sharp) hits hard times gets thrown out of his rock band and is having cash issues with rent due and people on his back he sees no way out! Then a call arrives for his flatmate Ned (Matthew Rowland) Regarding a position at a High Regarded School looking for a substitute teacher. Before he knows its Hes posing as a fake music teacher at a very posh school whilst trying to keep his identity hidden from the very prim and proper uptight Head Mistress Miss Mullins (Rebecca Lock). He begins to bring the children out of their shells by teaching them and introducing them to the rock gods of our time. How to make music and how to rock out in the best possible way, seeing as many of the children feel they don’t have a voice it’s the most perfect way for them to express themselves. This only transforming them into one amazing rock band that he wants to take all the way to the Battle of the Bands.
Jake Sharp as Dewey played his part exceptionally well with such enthusiasm to music. Acting not quite the adult and very childish and cheeky at times. He showed great energy on the stage and went ballistic with his guitar jumping around generally showing us how to rock out! I enjoyed everything about this dude from his actions to his voice just an impressive first-rate performance that had the audience laughing throughout the whole show as well as being very amused and entertained.
Rebecca Lock as Rosalie Mullins played a very impressive, spectacular pristine and sternly equipped Headteacher. Her performance of Where did the Rock Go was just outstanding to watch, she gripped the audience with her powerful electrifying voice. what a fabulous song that was well accomplished.
As for the children well, it wouldn’t have been such a spectacular performance without them. The amount of talent that I witnessed in one sitting was just magnificent and marvellous. Amazing Grace performed by Tomika ( Souparnika Nair) just blew me away, with her strong voice at such a young age. Then their rock moves are definitely to be mentioned. I’ve never seen so many children strutting out such fabulous moves, including some fab outfits, bright swinging head banging colourful hair. Followed by exceptional faces they definitely showed you exactly how to Rock on out and have as much fun as possible! Talent was at a definite high.
This production was just awesome from start to finish. I can honestly say I was sad to see it end. I definitely was smiling, clapping and joining in through the whole performance such a feel-good show with so much to offer that really shouldn’t be missed.