Theater Cedar Rapids put on a musical called School of Rock. Yes, based on the classic movie with Jack Black. Anyway, you see the name, of course, we got involved because we are a School of Rock in town! 

For most of May, the Cedar Rapids community got a chance to revisit awesome moments from the 2003 movie School of Rock in a musical, made up of local talent.

Westley Lindo Ellis is a student at our School of Rock. After playing keyboards for almost two years and being in house band, it made sense to sign up for auditions when the theater started casting for the musical.

“I had just finished my first play ever [Honk! By Revival Theater Company] and I loved it so much I couldn't wait to act again, and the School of Rock production seemed perfect for me,” he said.

The process of being part of the cast was a lengthy one with multiple auditions. Ellis explained it started with a video of him playing a song. But the nerve-wracking part was auditioning in person, twice!

“I had to sing in front of strangers to me at the time but it went really well,” Ellis said.

Despite the intense process, Ellis showed the judges his skills and landed the role of Lawrence aka Mr. Cool, playing keyboards. The show is made up of cast and crew of all ages, Ellis said being a part of the musical was a great learning experience overall.

“I love entertaining people with my talents and charm. I like inspiring people to learn music and stay with your dreams,” he said.

The lyric in the movie goes “rock got no reason” – indeed! Ellis along with the rest of the cast and crew needed no reason to put on a rockin’ show.