SCHOOL OF ROCK: The Musical Opens In November!

MELBOURNE – September 2025: The smash hit musical comedy film SCHOOL OF ROCK (2003) starred Jack Black, as a struggling musician who impersonates his friend in order to get a gig as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. The beloved film was then picked up by Andrew Lloyd Webber turned into a hit Broadway musical garnering a Laurence Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Music in 2017 for its London production, as well as four Tony Award nominations in 2016 for its Broadway run, including for Best Musical, B

est Book, Best Score, and Best Performance by an Actor.On November 1st, Melbourne’s beloved independent theatre group, Theatrical Inc production, SCHOOL OF ROCK THE MUSICAL will bring this hit show to The National Theatre in St Kilda. 

This overwhelming fun and good natured musical production marks an exciting stage debut for emerging musician theatre performer John Yanko,  who takes on the iconic role of Dewey Finn. Nineteen year old John was one of the stars of ABC TV’s The Piano this year. John is joined by a supremely talented diverse young cast that features a fresh line up of emerging talent, that is in keeping with the ethos of Theatrical Inc’s mission to provide opportunities for rising stars. 

John Yanko said, “School of Rock’ is a show where people can have a laugh, a great time and enjoy themselves. As a huge fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber, I am so excited to be playing the part of Dewey Finn in this incredible show with this wonderful cast and production team. “

This new Theatrical Inc production will be directed by Regional Tony Award winner Cody Riker, with musical direction by Mal Fawcett and choreography by Jaimee White. 

Director Cody Riker said, “School of Rock is a show about growing up, finding your passion, and also lifting each other up. For a musical that is based on a twenty year old movie, the nostalgia truly elevates this piece. I have loved working with this truly beautiful and chaotic group of kids and adults.”

With a cast of wildly talented kids playing live on stage, School of Rock is bursting with energy, humour and heart. Dewey teaches his students to let loose, find their voices and stick it to the man — and they end up teaching him a thing or two along the way.

The incredible rock score features original songs written for the musical, alongside classic rock numbers including AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top (If You Want To Rock N Roll)” performed live by the multi-talented cast. This vibrant production is a must-see for fans of the School of Rock 2003 film and newcomers alike. 

The limited season will run at the National Theatre in St Kilda from November 1 to 9. Tickets are now on sale for SCHOOL OF ROCK THE MUSICAL at https://booktickets.com.au/schoolofrock/ 

For further information, to obtain media tickets or to request interviews for SCHOOL OF ROCK: The Musical - please contact Aisling Brady e: aisling@aecreativecomms.com.au m: +61424520345 

images for use can be found HERE - Credit Natalie Edge Photography

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Director: Cody Riker

Musical Director: Mal Fawcett

Choreographer: Jaimee White

Production Manager: Carla Maggio De Leo

Executive Producer: Andrew Gyopar

Based on the Paramount movie written by MIKE WHITE

Music by ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

Script by JULIAN FELLOWES  Lyrics by GLENN SLATER

“School of Rock” is presented by permission of ORiGiN™ Theatrical

ABOUT THEATRICAL

Theatrical is an independent musical theatre production company dedicated to making the joy of live theatre accessible to everyone. As a company, we are passionate about creating an approachable and engaging community-based theatre experience — not only for the people who participate in our productions, but also for the audiences who come to share in the magic.

Our mission is to bring people together through the power of storytelling. As an independent company, we are proud to create opportunities for emerging and aspiring talent to grow, both on stage and behind the scenes. Whether it's through training and development for performers or by welcoming those who want to contribute their skills in areas such as acting, singing, dancing, set construction, stage crew, scenic art, costuming, makeup, or technical theatre, we invite you to be part of our creative journey.

We are committed to inclusive casting. We seek to cast the most suitable performer for each role, regardless of background, and value diversity across all areas of our productions. Everyone is encouraged to audition, and performers are considered for all roles — not just those traditionally aligned with their own characteristics. By reflecting the richness of modern Australia, our productions are made stronger, more meaningful, and more representative of the communities we serve.