Adapted from the fan-favourite Paramount movie written by Mike White and starring Jack Black, the Tony-nominated School of Rock - The Musical is ready to rock the Mediterranean Conference Centre this October.
Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and live music, this feel-good show follows Dewey Finn, a failed rock star wannabe who poses as a substitute teacher at an elite prep school. What begins as a desperate scheme to make some quick cash takes an unexpected turn as he helps his students to unleash their inner rock stars - and stay true to themselves.
Taking centre stage as Dewey Finn for Revamp MT's production is actor and comedian James Ryder. A familiar face on the Maltese comedy circuit, Ryder has relished the chance to make the role his own.
"I didn't want to play Jack Black playing Dewey Finn per the film, nor Alex Brightman playing Dewey Finn, who originated the role in the Broadway musical adaptation," Ryder explains. "The past few months have revolved around how I can be James Ryder playing Dewey Finn and leave my own mark on the character. The best way to do that, I've found, is to be the same me that audiences have known for the past five years - the same comedic energy, vamps and a few chaotic tendencies thrown in."
Joining Ryder are Natassja Chapman as the no-nonsense school principal Rosalie Mullins, Alessio Buhagiar as the timid Ned Schneebly, Rachel Elizabeth Grech as Ms Sheinkopf and Bertha Farrugia as Patty Di Marco. Together, they form a powerhouse adult cast, complemented by two rotating ensembles of exceptionally talented young performers who play live music and sing, while bringing plenty of rock 'n' roll spirit to the stage.
From start to finish, the young performers deliver the heart and soul that make this show unforgettable. "I had no idea kids could be this talented!" Ryder jokingly confesses. "I have to admit, keeping up with 33 kids takes a lot more energy than I'd expected - and I'm not familiar with even half their vocabulary."
Featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater and book by Julian Fellowes, the musical comes to life in Malta with the guidance of Revamp MT's accomplished creative team. Musical veteran Dorothy Bezzina serves as director, alongside musical director Edward Mifsud, choreographer Samaria Bezzina and production manager Karl Borg. Add sound and lighting design from Sergio Costa and Mohamed Ali 'Dali' Aguerbi respectively, and the show not only promises polished staging, dynamic choreography and electrifying performances, but also captures the story's rebellious spirit and uplifting heart.
Indeed, with comedy, music, heart and plenty of rock 'n' roll magic, School of Rock's message of self-confidence lingers long after the last cymbal clash. Beyond the big laughs and infectious score, the show is also a celebration of courage and of finding your voice, Ryder points out. "Dewey is someone who's well aware of who he is - and he owns it and runs with it. That's a mantra we can all use a little more of."
Asked what else he hopes audiences will take away from the music and mayhem of School of Rock, Ryder answers: "First, never underestimate kids in theatre. Second, you can find awesome musicals right here on the island - of which Revamp has plenty more on the way. And third," he adds with a grin, "I can hold a note!"
The Revamp MT production of School of Rock - The Musical will run for one weekend only, with both matinee and evening performances between 10-12 October 2025 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. Buy three tickets and get the fourth one free for the matinee performance on Saturday 11 October at 2.30pm. The show is recommended for audiences aged six and over, with mild parental discretion advised. This production was made possible by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd. More information and tickets are available online at www.showshappening.com/mcc/schoolofrock.