School of Rock Takes Center Stage in Charlotte
Charlotte, get ready to rock! The Children’s Theatre of Charlotte has officially kicked off its new season with the exciting debut of “School of Rock the Musical” on September 20. Fans of the hit 2003 movie will be thrilled to see it come to life on stage, complete with a score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Show Details
This electrifying production runs through October 20 and promises to delight audiences of all ages, especially those aged 7 and up. However, parents should be aware that it contains some adult language and content, making it a great option for families with older children who can handle the themes presented.
A Talented Cast
One of the standout features of this show is its young performers. The cast comprises 13 talented children, four of whom showcase their musical skills by playing live music while acting out their roles. This unique blend of singing, acting, and live instrumental performances creates an immersive experience that is sure to captivate the audience.
In addition to the young stars, there are 14 professional adult actors who bring depth and experience to the production, enhancing the overall quality of the show.
Bridging Two Worlds
According to Adam Burke, CTC’s artistic director and the director of the production, the show highlights the often conflicting pressures placed on children by adults. “This show illustrates the conflict that exists in our world between the pressure that we, as adults, place on children to ‘succeed’ and the deep need of those children to push back and redefine what success looks like for themselves,” Burke shared.
The storyline beautifully weaves together the experiences of students finding their identities and confidence within the school environment while exploring the liberating world of rock music. It invites the audience to reflect on these moments, making it relatable and relevant for both kids and adults.
Creative Design
The stage design is another captivating aspect of this production. Scenic designer Tom Burch worked diligently to capture the essence of both a rock concert and a traditional school setting. He explained, “These two worlds speak very little to each other visually, so instead of trying to bounce back and forth between them, we needed to find a balance that let the two worlds live together.”
To create this balance, Burch incorporated elements from both realms. The result is a stunning stage that features the dramatic truss work commonly seen at rock concerts paired with the familiar touches of a New England boarding school’s design, including chalkboards and crown molding. The addition of a vibrant plaid design stretching across the floor provides a fun nod to the school’s atmosphere while maintaining the energetic vibe of a rock show.
A Message for the Audience
Burch expressed his hopes for the audience’s experience, stating, “What I hope the audience comes away with is a better understanding of how the world needs both the structure and pattern of a school and the freedom and expressiveness of rock in each of our lives.”
Closing Thoughts
With a unique blend of music, drama, and relatable themes, School of Rock the Musical is set to be a fantastic production that embodies the spirit of both rock and the school experience. Don’t miss your chance to see it live at 5118 Princess St., Charlotte, NC until October 20. It promises to be a night of entertainment that resonates with audiences, young and old alike!
