School of Rock opens to sell-out crowds in Wonthaggi

SCHOOL of Rock brought energy, humour and improvisation to large audiences in Wonthaggi over the weekend, with Friday’s opening performance tickets sold to the back row.

Fifty-four cast members, including an enthusiastic group of kids, put their talent on show, playing instruments, singing and dancing.

Director, Bron Croatto said there was a deliberate focus on having a diverse classroom of kids so everyone could relate to someone.

While only 15 youngsters were needed for the main group, others helped with the set, and some formed an orchestra.

Bron outlined the message behind School of Rock.

“The show is about striving for something you want and realising it’s about everybody,” she said.

That is a lesson learned by Dewey, a failed, wannabe rock star played by experienced Wonthaggi Theatrical Group actor Jay Nelson.

Bron outlined why he was delighted to play that character, something he’s long wanted to do.

“He loves the improvisation and the comedy,” she said.

Bron spoke of the challenge of getting people back into theatre after the pandemic, something that is now proving successful.

“We’re building the next generation of kids who love performing,” she said.

Sunday’s show sold out ahead and over 1000 people attended during the opening weekend.

There are still nine more sessions of School of Rock, running this Thursday to Sunday and the following Thursday to Saturday, finishing on March 18.

Visit wtg.org.au to purchase tickets.