Pine-Richland Middle School students set to rock crowds with 'School of Rock' musical

Pine-Richland Middle School students will begin a series of three performances of “School of Rock” this evening, Jan. 31.

The musical, based on the 2003 comedy film, follows a wannabe rock star who, through a case of mistaken identity, begins teaching students rock and roll at an elite prep school.

Students offered an early showing for senior citizens and high school musical students on Jan. 30, which ran slightly under three hours and included an impromptu rock performance at intermission. Frequently, students played instruments live on stage while maintaining the show’s musical numbers and choreography.

The show’s director, Jamie Miller, said the student performers were an “eclectic” group, and “School of Rock” seemed the natural choice for the spring musical. Since practice began in October, Miller said it has been no easy task wrangling 60 middle schools with various levels of musical experiences, but she said she is “very proud” of the students.

“These kids have done a great job of coming together and being a team,” she said.

The early showing featured moments of improvisation as the performers worked out the kinks of the show. The limited crowd often cheered when students hit high notes or waved their phone flashlights during slower songs.

Rachel Natali and Cayla Griffin, two of the student performers, surprised the crowd and director alike when they came on stage to play Weezer’s song “Undone (The Sweater Song)” during intermission.

The show’s lead performer, Desolina Postreich, plays the musical’s main character, Dewey Finn. She said she thought the cast handled improvised moments well, and she is excited for the upcoming shows.

“We just worked so hard, and I can see the progess,” Postreich said. “Over the past two weeks, it has turned into such an amazing show.”

Her favorite numbers, she said, are “You’re in the Band” and “Stick It to the Man,” both of which see reprises during the show.

Collyn Pala, whose daughter, Natalie, is a cast member, said the show was “really fun.” The students, she said, have “worked hard” for months, and she expects a “big turn out” for future shows.

The first show will take place at 7 p.m. Jan. 31, followed by 3 and 7 p.m. shows Feb. 1. Those interested can buy tickets online at www.ticketleap.events/tickets/prms-9/school-of-rock/day.