St Pat’s act ready to rock

WITH a new performing arts centre recently unveiled at St Patrick’s College, the stage is set to be christened with the school’s rendition of School of Rock.

Based on the 2015 musical of the Richard Linkater-directed 2003 film, student performers will soon bring to life the story of slacker musician Dewey Finn introducing a prestigious classroom to rock music.

St Pat’s head of drama and the musical’s director Monique Allen said there had been newfound advantages to having a home base to rehearse and perform at.

“It’s the first musical that’s going to be held in our new space so especially for our two leads, they’ve had five years of productions offsite and at different locations..

“Now they finally get their new show, their final year 12 show in our performing arts centre so I’m really excited for them to perform on home ground.

“We’re still laughing at the jokes even though I’ve heard them hundreds of times now. Having an audience here will give these guys the reaction their hard work deserves.”

Having a set on-campus facility for the production has led to quicker, more efficient rehearsals as well as a familiarity with the intended performance space. “It’s allowed us to focus on the bigger picture and the technical details,” Allen said.

The cast features nearly 50 cast members, including 40 St Pat’s students as well as actors from Loreto and Clarendon colleges.

Rehearsals have averaged twice a week since the start of the year.

Year 12 student Ted Turnbull-Gent is performing the lead role originally played by Jack Black more than 20 years ago.

Acting with St Pat’s since Year 9 in productions such as Private Peaceful, 12 Angry Men and Spamalot, he said he’s excited to see out his final year with the college with School of Rock.

“A highlight for me is just all the people I’m working with, everyone’s really supportive of each other so it’s really nice to work with each other,” he said.

“I’m really glad I’m able to be in this because it’d be a shame to see this centre being built and not get to perform. But also it’s just a really fun character to be playing so I’m excited to be part of it.”

St Patrick’s College’s School of Rock will be held on Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17 at 7.30pm followed by a matinee performance the following Saturday at 1pm.

Tickets are $25 adult and $18 for children, college staff and concession holders, with a $75 family option available.

Book at bit.ly/3UO1rEd