Review: School of Rock at the Keller Auditorium

A Play and a Rock Concert All In One!

“That was soooo cool!” my ten-year-old said as we clapped and gave a standing ovation at the end of School of Rock The Musical, part of Broadway in Portland this week. Along with the packed house at the Keller Auditorium, we were clapping and cheering for Dewey and a talented group of kids as they loosened up and formed a classroom rock band in this fun and feel-good story.

The first announcement of the evening, even before the reminder to turn off cell phones, was that the young actors would actually be playing their instruments live on stage. As the night went on, the talent of these young kids blew us all away. The cast’s rocking skills are showcased in this sweet story about standing up for who you are and following your passions. The musical is similar, of course, to the movie with Jack Black, but with some fun additions and even more music.

The actors kept the crowd energized and engaged for the whole night with funny bits and lots of live music. We loved songs like Stick it to the Man and You’re in the Band. The choreography and set design are top-notch — as only big Broadway can do. All in all, it was a very fun night that left us wanting to rock on and listen to some Stevie Nicks on the drive home.

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School of Rock The Musical performs May 21-26 at the Keller Auditorium in Portland. Tickets start at $30, student rush tickets day of with a valid student ID.

Tips:

  • Street parking is free downtown after 7pm; come a little early to grab a close spot. Several parking garages conveniently nearby if not
  • Families of kids with sensory issues should be advised the music is loud and there are flashing lights on the stage and on the audience throughout the night
  • Snacks and drinks are available to purchase in the lobby and you can bring them in the auditorium as you watch the show
  • This show is probably a better fit with older kids (8+) due to some (mild) mature language and jokes
  • Your kid might want to take up drums or the electric guitar after seeing this show. That will be fun, right?

ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation is available during the 7:30 pm performance on Thursday, May 23. Purchase ASL tickets online or call the Portland’5 Box Office at 503-248-4335.

Open captioning is available during the 6:30pm performance on Sunday, May 26. Purchase open caption tickets online or call the Portland’5 Box Office at 503-248-4335.

Audio Description is available during the 7:30pm performance on Friday, May 24. Headsets are available free-of-charge, on a first-come, first-served basis, with ID from the Keller Auditorium Coat Checkroom.

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Review by Rachel Austin. Rachel Austin is a local artist and parent. You can also see her work online by clicking here or follow her on instagram.


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