Andrew Lloyd Webber to stage ‘School of Rock’

MANILA, Philippines – Andrew Lloyd Webber, the British composer who brought us the musicals “Phantom of the Opera,” “Cats,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and “Evita” will now bestow his Midas Touch on the 2003 film “School of Rock.”

On April 4, the multi-awarded composer told CBC Radio host Jian Ghomeshi that he acquired the rights to the comedy film starring Jack Black and is “very excited” about adapting it for the stage.

He also revealed that he might add his own songs to the film’s rock soundtrack which includes songs by rock legends Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Nirvana, The Clash, Metallica, AC/DC, The Doors, David Bowie, and more.

“There may be songs for me in it, but it’s obviously got songs in it as it stands,” said Lloyd Webber.

Watch the ‘School of Rock’ trailer here:

Rock-inspired

The film, directed by Richard Linklater and written by Mike White, revolves around the mishaps of financially-challenged rock singer and guitarist Dewey Finn (Jack Black). After getting kicked out of his band for his arrogance and crazy stage antics, he impersonates his roommate in order to get a job as a substitute teacher in a private school to pay for his debts.

He notices the musical talent of his 5^th grade students and hatches a plan to enter them in a Battle of the Bands competition. He hopes to win the contest’s cash prize in order to pay off his debts. To prepare for the contest, he teaches his students the history of rock and makes them perform classic rock hits.

With Lloyd Webber’s matchless record for creating timeless songs such as “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” from “Evita,” “The Music of the Night” from “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Memory,” from “Cats,” fans can expect knock-out hits from his “School of Rock” adaptation. – With reports from Pia Ranada/Rappler.com