We reviewed the current production of 'School of Rock' earlier in its run. This review is an updated version of a previously published one.

For most people, Andrew Lloyd Webber is a name synonymous with musical theatre - and hit shows too. There's very few of his productions that haven't gone on to phenomenal success either in the UK or overseas and School Of Rock is undoubtedly the newest addition to that list.

CREDIT: Paul Coltas

Based on the hit film starring Jack Black, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn - 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.

Featuring 14 new songs, plus all the originals from the movie, this production delivers face-melting guitar riffs and touching romance in equal measure. 

It's fair to say that School Of Rock is the sort of musical that you can't help but smile at. Whether it's the humour, the soundtrack or the insanely talented child performers, the joy of watching the show is as addictive as the message it passes down.

The first thing that shines is the soundtrack. Populated by a mix of originals from the film and new - more theatrical - additions, this is a show with a soundtrack that’s both vocally demanding and aurally stunning, helped on the way by an immaculate cast. Particular favourites include Stick It To The Man, When I Climb To The Top Of Mount Rock and the Jim Steinman creation, Where Did The Rock Go.

Jake Sharp leads the cast as Dewey Finn and his performance continues to blow my mind. Finn is the man who masquerades as his best mate in order to get enough cash to pay his rent and, ultimately, to take the school to victory in Battle Of The Bands.

What's noticeable is that, since the last Midlands date, Sharp's performance seems to have improved - a feat which seems impossible! His ability knows no bounds, and seemingly nor does his athleticism.

What’s also lovely to see is that Sharp’s take on Finn isn’t simply a Jack Black caricature. It would be so easy to mimic the original actor, especially in a film with cult status, but that’s not the angle taken here, which is well judged.

Rarely off-stage, he throws himself around like 'stamina' isn't even something to question. This is a role that Sharp has a long-standing history with and one he will be remembered for.

CREDIT: Paul Coltas

Rebecca Lock plays Rosalie; the schools principal and the unlikely target of Finn's affection. Still on top form and with some enviable dialogue, anything Lock is in will be golden, and this production is no exception.

Lock's list of previous credits include some of the most loved shows of a generation - from Mamma Mia to Marry Poppins and Heathers, and it shows. Singing through her solo's like she's been doing them for decades,

The chemistry between Lock and Sharp is noticeable and natural and is a clear nod to a performance which oozes quality.

However I think the best marks and the top of the class moniker has to go to our young cast this evening. A dozen of them on stage almost constantly, with a number of them playing instruments - live - to an astonishingly high standard. They are clearly the future of the industry and show be incredibly proud of their professionalism on stage. They make the show what it is and each and every one of them deserved their place tonight.

Birmingham; you're in the band! 

School Of Rock plays at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 5th February 2022. For more information, or to book tickets, head online to atgtickets.com/birmingham.