Hot on the heels of a sellout production of Matilda JR, drama students at a Flintshire high school are six weeks into rehearsals for what promises to be another musical extravaganza that will banish any winter blues.
Audiences are in for a treat when Flint High School's production of We Will Rock You opens for five spectacular performances in February.
The musical is based on the songs of British rock band Queen, in conjunction with comic legend and writer, Ben Elton.
The futuristic story features the Killer Queen who is in charge of the iPlanet, where everything is in her control and where she does not allow music or creative ideas that are not hers. If the people do not fit to her ideals and her way of life, they are cast out. Galileo and Scaramouche are two outcasts trying to find their way in this Killer Queen world; they are met by a group of rebel outcasts called the Bohemians who guide them through the journey of stopping the Killer Queen and restoring justice for those who are different on the iPlanet.
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A talented cast of 40 students from Years 7 to 13 are set to wow audiences with their amazing acting and musical performances, and another 15 students in a live band will perform on all three nights, swapping out between songs. There is also a dedicated backstage crew, and a costume, make-up and hair team who are excited to get to work closer to the time, and the design and technology department are developing design ideas for the props and set.
The lead role of Galileo is being played by Lewis Lowry, Year 9, who will be joined by Evie Parker, Year 9, in the female lead role of Scaramouche. Bohemian's Ozzy Osborne will be played by Alishiea Martin, Year 10, with Amelia Bowden, Year 9, as Britney Spears, and Leah Jones, Year 13, as Buddy Holly. The villain Killer Queen will be performed by Bethan Jones, Year 10, joined by her right handman, Khashoggi, played by Nathan Burrows, Year 9.
Due to the technical nature of the dance routines, students who are experienced dancers outside of school will play the 'Super Yuppies', the Killer Queen's minions.
Sian Holmes, performing arts teacher, is directing the school's edition of the show which is full of comedy, jokes, pop culture references, and brimming with the feel-good factor of Queen's music. With lunchtime and afterschool rehearsals underway and weekend rehearsals to follow in the new year, Mrs Holmes is ensuring the show will be pitch perfect for opening night.
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She said: "Our cast have been hugely committed to this production of We Will Rock You, giving up lunchtimes, break times and afterschool hours. Their energy and enthusiasm to every rehearsal has been phenomenal. The cast and band have become such a close-knit group of friends who are in the expressive arts department whenever they have free time, playing instruments, singing, and dancing together. There is never a quiet moment which is fantastic to see.
"The duets and solos in this musical bring a lot more emotion and connection to the music/lyrics. Our cast have done a fantastic job of being able to read the mood of the music and adapt themselves to the atmosphere from the piece, which runs from high energy happiness to death and sadness. With 22 songs we have had our work cut out so far on both dancing and singing! The band have been brilliant, cracking on with learning their pieces in their rehearsals and at home.
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"The talent we have this year is amazing and we cannot wait to share this production with everyone."
Numerous staff are involved with the production including Fran Lister, music teacher, who is the music director for the band, supporting the ensemble with their vocal work. Jennifer Greenwood is the choreographer, and Jamie Jones is supporting with the script sections of the show.
• We Will Rock You is on from February 13-15, 2023, including two matinee performances for primary schools. Tickets at £10 will be available from January.
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