In curating our 49th Season to be Brave, School of Rock: The Musical stood out as a fearless and fitting choice—a production that captures the spirit of rebellion, self-expression, and the power of believing in your own voice.
At its core, School of Rock is more than just a high-energy rock musical. It’s a story about daring to break the mold, challenging expectations, and empowering young people to embrace who they truly are. It invites us all to stand a little taller, sing a little louder, and live a little braver.
This season is about courage—not just the grand, theatrical kind, but the everyday bravery it takes to try something new, speak your truth, or lead with heart. School of Rock delivers that message with a full-volume soundtrack and a defiant grin, reminding us that bravery isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being unapologetically you.
This production is a celebration of creativity, community, and the transformative power of music. It’s also a tribute to those who dare to be different and who discover that the things that make them unique are, in fact, their greatest strengths.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your support allows us to continue telling stories that matter—stories that challenge, uplift, and inspire. School of Rock is one of those stories, and we are so proud to share it with you this season.
With gratitude,
JP Thibodeau
Artistic Director, StoryBook TheatreWelcome to School of Rock.
Class is in session!
I am thrilled to bring this musical, based on the hit Jack Black film that has inspired so many to discover the world of arts education, to the wonderful StoryBook Theatre stage.
Listening and being heard are essential, but not always easy. We all have a voice and want to use it. Yet sometimes, it feels like we’re speaking into a void—a challenge that often feels amplified across generations. In this show, we work to bridge those gaps by embracing and celebrating diverse perspectives, connecting through what makes each viewpoint unique.
At the heart of our story is the bond between Dewey Finn and his students. Dewey brings his infectious passion for rock. The students offer fresh ideas and unique talents. Through music, they discover a common language that sparks mutual growth. Dewey learns patience and responsibility. The students gain confidence and creativity.
Dewey’s bold, carefree style may initially clash with the students’ reserved personalities. However, it is in the moments of genuine listening where Dewy and the students all discover their true voice, building a supportive community in the process. In the end, everyone finishes on a high note, as the students gain the confidence to share their gifts with the world.
The beauty of this show lies in its cast of well-intentioned characters. Each one is eager to help others reach their full potential. Sometimes, they are all speaking at once, each convinced their way is best. However, by pausing, listening, and learning from one another, they discover new possibilities. A reminder to us all that listening is learning—something might just strike a chord.
See ya in class!
School of Rock is a high-energy musical adaptation of the hit 2003 film, featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Glenn Slater. The story follows Dewey Finn, a passionate but down-on-his-luck rock guitarist who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school after being kicked out of his band. Struggling to pay rent and desperate for a break, Dewey stumbles into the classroom and quickly realizes that his straight-laced students have untapped musical talent.
Inspired by their potential, Dewey secretly transforms his class into a full-fledged rock band to compete in the Battle of the Bands. Through humor, chaos, and some classic rock anthems, he teaches the students the power of music, self-expression, and teamwork. Along the way, the kids break free from parental expectations and find their own voices, while Dewey himself learns about responsibility, integrity, and what it truly means to inspire others.
By the finale, School of Rock becomes a celebration of rebellion, creativity, and belonging. It captures the spirit of rock ’n’ roll as a force for empowerment and change—reminding audiences that music can bridge generations and help even the most unlikely people discover their place in the world.
Act I
“I’m Too Hot for You” – No Vacancy
“When I Climb to the Top of Mount Rock” – Dewey
“Horace Green Alma Mater” – Teachers and Students
“Here at Horace Green” – Rosalie and Teachers
“Variation 7” / “Children of Rock” – Dewey and Students
“If Only You Would Listen” – Students
“In the End of Time” – Dewey and Students
“Faculty Quadrille” – Teachers
“Stick It to the Man” – Dewey and Students
Act II
“Time to Play” – Students
“A Queen’s English Teacher” – Rosalie and Dewey
“Where Did the Rock Go?” – Rosalie
“Dewey’s Confession” (Reprise of “If Only You Would Listen”) – Students and Dewey
“School of Rock (Band Practice)” – Students and Dewey
“Dewey’s Big Moment” / “I’m Too Hot for You (Reprise)” – No Vacancy
“School of Rock (Competition)” – Dewey and Students
“Stick It to the Man (Encore)” – Full Company
School of Rock Calgary - for supporting our artists as they learned to play
Ryan Marchant
Shannon-Lee Beshara
A teaser from the Broadway Production of School of Rock.
PROGRAM
School of Rock
Based on the Paramount movie by MIKE WHITE
Book by JULIAN FELLOWES
Lyrics by GLENN SLATER; New Music by ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
Directed & Choreography by STEPHAN DICKSON
Musical Direction by DAN PERROTT
Presented through a special arrangement with Concord Theatricals. All authorized performance materials are supplied by Concord Theatricals -www.concordtheatricals.com