We Will Rock You

Lakes Leisure Kendal

Kirkbie Kendal School’s production of We Will Rock You was a total triumph. Performed over three nights, the musical by Ben Elton and Queen, highlighted the enormous talents of the students and the production skills of the staff. There were times when you could have believed you were watching a professional theatre group at work. It was that good. The musical, which is set in a future where live music is banned, saw some standout performances. Crispin Halcrow and Helena Farrell, in the lead roles of Galileo Figaro and Scaramouche were outstanding and sparks flew as they traded insults, songs and loving looks. They both handled their acting and singing roles brilliantly. Helena has a voice that will send shivers down your spine. Her performance of Somebody To Love was incredible. Alexandra Longcake was also amazing as the Killer Queen and she contributed several spellbindingly, brilliant songs. Another heart stopping moment came with Georgina Buckley’s beautiful rendition of another Queen classic. You would expect a musical that was co-written by Ben Elton to include some funny lines and the show doesn’t disappoint. The job of delivering many of those lines fell to David Hesmondhaugh as Pop who turned in a performance of rare quality and comedic timing. Gregor Rothwell , Byron Bell and Imogen Hartley also came out with stunning performances. The principal cast were backed up by a myriad of dancers and singers, too many to mention by name and drawn from years seven to 12. They were accompanied by a rocking live band under the conductorship of Mark Leadbeatter. The twin lead guitars of Year 13 students Jethro Lehane and Jack Andrews was something to behold. Produced by Mark Leadbeatter and directed and choreographed by Gemma Beethom, this show transcended a normal school show. With a fantastic set, amazing lighting and sound and very clever back projections, the audience were literally transported into another world. The finale of “We Will Rock You” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”, which featured the entire cast, left the audience rocking and rolling and wanting more. This is a production that the school can be very, very proud of. Geoff Cater