Les Varendes High School proved that rock and roll most certainly belongs in the hands of the next generation with an electrifying production of School Of Rock. Packed with energy, humour and remarkable musical talent, the show was a triumph from start to finish. More than just a school musical, this show marked the first time students from the ‘new’ Les Varendes High School took to the stage, with two groups of exceptionally talented young people combining their strengths to create something truly special.
Every member of the cast performed with infectious enthusiasm, confidence and anticipation of what was to come. Their commitment filled the stage with life, making it impossible not to be swept along by the sheer excitement of the performance.
At the heart of the show was a captivating performance by Bobby Cole as Dewey Finn, the unconventional substitute teacher who transforms his classroom into a bona fide rock band. Bobby’s comic timing and magnetic stage presence gave life to Dewey’s larger-than-life character, balancing wild humour, warmth, and just the right touch of rebellious flair – not to mention some seriously impressive live guitar playing.
The core School Of Rock band – George Dyer (guitar), Amy Robert (bass), Chloe-Taylor Sallis (keys), and Rafael Masterton (drums) – delivered an authentic, high-voltage musical experience, playing live throughout and proving that the next generation of rockers is already here. Stand-out supporting performances included Eleanor Stanley as the seemingly stern but secretly spirited headteacher Miss Mullins, Felix Cumberland-Dodd as the take-charge Summer Hathaway and Evie Langlois as the shy Tomika, blossoming into a vocal powerhouse. Lucas Coyne charmed as the awkward but well-intentioned (secret leather-wearing) Ned Schneebly, while Alexia Nascimento shone as the formidable Patty Di Marco.
Vocal performances were consistently outstanding, with soloists tackling their numbers with poise and passion, and ensemble pieces bursting with energy and perfectly synchronised choreography. The professionalism displayed across the board was remarkable – and a testament to the students’ commitment and the creative team’s vision.
But what made this production truly special was not just the music or the acting. It was the spirit of collaboration and the sense of new beginnings. The union of students from both schools created an on-stage chemistry that was palpable, a living proof of what can be achieved when young people embrace change and work together towards a common goal.
Behind the scenes, the production was equally impressive with expert lighting and sound from the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts. The show was brilliantly directed and choreographed by teachers Alison Birkett and Chandler Goddard, whose work ensured the production moved with pace and energy throughout. Musical direction was in the capable hands of Lois Hantonne, who also conducted the live student band each night, performing the sections of the score not played by the young musicians on stage and ensuring the music powered the show from beginning to end.
After the performance, Alison said she could not have been more proud of the students and what they had achieved together.
‘This show has been incredibly special for us. It’s the first time students and staff from the Les Varendes High and La Mare de Carteret High have come together to create something like this, and they have embraced it with such enthusiasm and teamwork. Watching them support one another, grow in confidence and deliver a performance of this quality has made us all enormously proud.’
In every sense, School Of Rock by Les Varendes was energetic, entertaining and explosive. More than just a school production, it was a celebration of talent, teamwork and a new chapter for the school community - showing just how successful the merging of these two vibrant groups of students has already become. Judging by the cheers from the audience, the future of theatre at Les Varendes and in Guernsey looks very bright indeed.
(Drop the mic and leave the stage)
