Immaculata High School’s production of We Will Rock You, an undeniable smash hit | Cappies

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Show #21

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Immaculata High School

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We Will Rock You: School Edition

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Director: Jillian Budgell

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Julia Koshy, Critic
St. Pius X High School

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Amidst the all-consuming internet and manufactured music, only someone truly spirited can bring back the soul of rock and roll. Immaculata High School’s fiery production of We Will Rock You: School Edition embodied this rebellious energy with flair and gritty guitar riffs.

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Written by Ben Elton, We Will Rock You follows two young rebels, Galileo and Scaramouche, who are trapped in a dystopian society ruled by Globalsoft and the Killer Queen. Along the way, the rebels encounter revolutionary “Bohemians” and work together to bring back rock and roll and individuality to their homogenous society. Featuring iconic songs from Queen like “Under Pressure” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”, will the rebels’ rock spirit be enough to revive it from the dead?

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Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez, as the charismatic Galileo, was incredible. Authentic voice inflexions, stutters, and infectious outbreaks into song rendered Galileo relatable. Rodriguez maintained high energy throughout the show, showcasing a powerful falsetto voice in “I Want to Break Free” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”. Alongside Galileo, Scaramouche, played by Kiarah Vilsaint, showcased exceptionally clear vocals even when moving across the stage. Vilsaint’s vocal tones also evolved, supporting Scaramouche’s transformation from a loner to a confident rock queen. The duo’s authentic interactions during emotional numbers, like “Who Wants to Live Forever”, underscored their intricate relationship, which withstood their oppressors amid a musical revolution.

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Lily Burns wonderfully captured Oz’s lively punk persona, with a bright singing voice and hilarious encounters with fellow cast members. In particular, Burns’ interactions with her fierce hubby, Britney Spears, played by Cameron Tyo, stood out for seamless conversation and mirrored physicality. Additionally, Tyo’s strong movements and resonant voice masterfully demonstrated Brit’s headstrong, kung-fu-loving persona. Jeffrey Garcia confidently glided across the stage as Khashoggi, often bursting into maniacal laughter, which emphasised Khashoggi’s cruel nature as the Killer Queen’s right-hand man.

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With a detached demeanour and structured movements, Lilyana Chartrand as the Teacher perfectly set the tone for the manufactured, dystopian world. August McComb’s strong walk and powerful roars brought the terrifying Killer Queen to life, determined to stop the Bohemians at any cost. Contrary to the Queen’s coldness, Buddy, the hilarious hippie historian, played by Dominic Laconi, brought expert comedic delivery and intrigue with Buddy’s mystical “vid-ay-oh tap-ays”.

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The Bohemians interacted playfully as a rebellious force against Globalsoft Corporation. Their collective vocal prowess brought potent energy to “Bohemian Rhapsody” and amplified the show’s excitement.

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The pit band played fast-paced, banging rock songs flawlessly. Powerful percussion and singing strings created harmonious, head-bobbing inducing songs full of spunk and character. Lucas Malo, a guitarist, also had electrifying solos, which enhanced the show’s authentic rock atmosphere. The Immaculate Costumes Collection, led by Julia Post, Lily Burns, & Elsie Austen, showcased exceptional clothing choices and crafting skills. Unique, colourful clothes of the Bohemians clashed with the sterile attire of the Globalsoft workers, highlighting the divide between individuality and conformity.

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Although Globalsoft tried to squash rock and roll, Immaculata High School’s production of We Will Rock You: School Edition was an undeniable smash hit. With bright vocals, bold attire, and a spunky attitude, the dedicated cast and crew proved that the spirit of rock and roll is truly indestructible.

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Lucie Parenteau, Critic
St. Patrick’s High School

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“Is this the real life, or is this just fantasy?” Immaculata High School’s production of We Will Rock You: School Edition demanded the question, reflecting a world where conformity is enforced and individuality is seen as an act of rebellion. The production reminded audiences how easily we can lose ourselves, and how powerful it is to break free from what is expected.

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With music from the iconic band Queen, We Will Rock You: School Edition is a jukebox musical that follows the story of Galileo Figaro as he grapples with identity, conformity, and destiny in a world stripped of individuality. Much like the shifting tones of Bohemian Rhapsody, the narrative moves between humour, dramatic tension, and triumph as Galileo discovers his role as the Dreamer. Alongside the rebellious and sharp-witted Scaramouche, he navigates a society that demands uniformity, gradually learning to embrace the chaos and freedom that comes with being different. Ultimately, the story mirrors the anthem’s enduring message: a bold refusal to conform, even when the pressure to do so feels overwhelming, and a celebration of individuality.

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Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez took on the role of Galileo, capturing the essence of a character destined to challenge a world built on conformity. Alongside Rodriguez, Kiarah Vilsaint’s Scaramouche brought a sharp, rebellious energy that both contrasted and complemented Galileo’s journey. Together, the pair evolved from reluctant partnership into a genuine bond rooted in shared defiance. Their performance of “I Want to Break Free” marked a turning point, as both characters began to reject the constraints placed upon them, while Vilsaint’s rendition of “Somebody to Love” revealed a more vulnerable side to Scaramouche, grounding the character’s bold exterior in something deeply human. By the time they joined forces in “We Will Rock You,” their connection no longer felt like outsiders searching for answers, but leaders embracing individuality and inspiring others to do the same.

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Anchoring the Bohemian resistance, Cameron Tyo as Brit delivered a powerful and engaging performance. Tyo’s portrayal was charismatic and commanding, making the character’s fate at the end of Act One all the more impactful. Tyo’s stage presence ensured that Brit’s ideals lingered even after his departure. As Brit’s fiercely loyal companion, Lily Burns portrayed Oz with vibrant energy and emotional depth that complemented Brit’s leadership. Burns’ outstanding vocals shone especially in “No One But You,” a poignant tribute filled with resilience that carried both the weight of loss and the hope of the enduring Bohemian spirit.

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From a technical standpoint, the production showcased strong attention to detail in both its visual and musical elements. The Immaculate Costumers Collection effectively established the dystopian setting with sleek, monochromatic designs, while the Bohemians’ layered, colourful looks symbolized freedom and rebellion. The Smokey Eye on the Water Make Up Team further enhanced this contrast, thoughtfully reflecting each character’s personality and status. The true highlight of the show was the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Pit Band, whose powerful and precise performance brought the music of Queen to life, elevating each number and driving the energy of the show from start to finish.

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Immaculata High School’s sensational production of We Will Rock You: School Edition was both real and fantasy, intertwined in a way that made the message all the more powerful. Like Bohemian Rhapsody, the production left audiences questioning not just the world on stage, but the one beyond it, and how they can break free themselves and find their place within it.

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Molly Sterling, Critic
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School

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In a futuristic world where rock music can’t exist, Immaculata High School’s performance of We Will Rock You: School Edition broke that rule by finding friendship in Rock n’ Roll. The cast and crew delivered colourful rock costumes, radiant choreography, and powerful vocal harmonies that lit up the stage with foot stompin’ musical talent.

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We Will Rock You: School Edition, written by Ben Elton, is set in a post-apocalyptic future where individualism is prohibited and all types of music, specifically Rock n’ Roll music is outlawed. The story follows two revolutionists, a young dreamer named Galileo and his friend, Scaramouche, on a journey to revive Rock music. Pumped with adrenaline and music by Queen, the two revolutionists intend to save the world from the Killer Queen with help of their Bohemian friends.

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Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez, in the role of Galileo, brought the spirit of a dreamer to life with remarkable clarity and charm. Rodriguez embodied the character’s outgoing and enthusiastic nature through expressive facial expressions and fluid, dynamic body language that captured Galileo’s boisterous energy. Vocally, Rodriguez impressed with a smooth, velvety tone, supported by strong breath control and confident intonation, allowing Rodriguez to express both passion and emotional depth in the mission to keep rock ‘n’ roll alive. Rodriguez’s performance was further elevated by thoughtful character choices, shifting from subtle, sincere moments with castmates to more exaggerated movements as Galileo’s confidence grew, transformation of a misfit into a self-assured dreamer.

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In revolution together, Kiarah Vilsaint portrayed Scaramouche’s misfit demeanour and sarcastic attitude thoroughly. Vilsaint’s voice carried effortlessly through each number, supported by strong breath control that gave phrasing clarity and consistency. Most striking were Vilsaint’s impressive belt notes, which added intensity and confidence to the character, making Scaramouche’s stage presence both commanding and memorable.

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The character Buddy, played by Dominic Laconi, provided effective comedic relief through not-so-subtle puns and moments of foreshadowing that highlighted the character’s easygoing nature. Laconi’s strong vocal projection and clear enunciation supported engaging narration of the apocalyptic future. In scenes alongside Kiarah Vilsaint and Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez, Laconi maintained a balanced dynamic among the revolutionaries, blending humour with a sense of guidance.

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On stage, The Immaculate Costumers Collection showcased heavily detailed rock-inspired leather jackets, studded and textured to enhance visual impact. Each group of characters, from the Bohemians to the Globalsoft team, conveyed individuality while maintaining cohesion within the overall troupe. Complementing the production, the Appetite for Construction Set Team designed rolling platforms beneath each set, allowing for smooth and efficient scene transitions. Every set piece featured detailed, characteristic design elements that reinforced the futuristic setting. The Hard Rock Café set stood out in particular, featuring references to decades of rock history, alongside an impressive, life-sized statue of Freddie Mercury, handcrafted by the team.

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Immaculata High School’s production of We Will Rock You: School Edition portrayed a strong sense of community and personal passion through vibrant colour and high-energy staging, to dream alongside characters who uplift and inspire one another.

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Ariana Guerra-Nguyen, Lead Critic
St. Patrick’s High School

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It is not always all about jazz hands and high notes in musical theatre productions. Sometimes, they involve revolutions that rock the stage with grand ambition and electric guitar solos. Immaculata High School’s rendition of We Will Rock You: School Edition truly transformed the stage into a dystopian battleground where rhythm awaits its reemergence.

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Written by Ben Elton and staged as a jukebox musical consisting exclusively of Queen hits, We Will Rock You: School Edition is an explosion of transformative musicality and synergy. Earth, renamed the iPlanet, is inhabited by a futuristic society governed by the Killer Queen. Within this technologically advanced civilization, anything promoting individuality is discouraged, especially musical instruments. Yet, no restrictions are strong enough to restrain the gallant Galileo from following the music he hears in his head. With Scaramouche, another outsider, the pair join the rebel group of Bohemians and begin searching for the instrument that will restore freedom.

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Music does not just surround him, it lives within him. The boy in question is the idiosyncratic Galileo, tastefully played by Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez. With such ardor and originality did this performer embody all of Galileo’s quirks and passions. Particularly highlighted during the songs “We Will Rock You” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” which were true testaments to Rodriguez’s effortless physicality and rockstar aura. Not one to tolerate fools or Galileo’s musical outbursts, Scaramouche’s sarcasm and standout vocals were skillfully executed by Kiarah Vilsaint. Whether excelling in solo numbers such as “Somebody to Love” or blending seamlessly with fellow vocalists through rich, melodious harmonies, namely during “Who Wants to Live Forever” and “Hammer to Fall”, Vilsaint’s vocals commanded the stage with each note.

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Leaning into absurdity with style and electrifying chemistry were Cameron Tyo and Lily Burns as Brit and Oz respectively. Tyo and Burns’ full embodiment of their characters elevated every song, including an unforgettable rendition of “I Want It All”, and turned stylization into storytelling. Beyond the brazenness of Brit and Oz lives the heart of the rebellion: the Bohemians. As resistance leader, Buddy was brought to life through Dominic Laconi’s unhinged comedic timing and unmistakable ability to bring good vibes. Among the rebels, Lilyana Chartrand as Katy Perry and Georgia McComb as Paul McCartney delivered memorable performances that stood out for their animated facial expressions and energetic execution of choreography during the “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” number.

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Even in a world where music had been lost, the choreography shone through to step into the spotlight. The Dancing in the Dark Choreographers ensured that whether it was the rebellion of the Bohemians or the robotic movements of the Gaga Kids, the choreography perfectly complemented the storyline. Shining alongside the choreography, The Immaculate Costumer’s Collection not only dressed the characters, but helped define them through a striking wardrobe. Standout pieces were Brit and Oz’s customized costumes where attention to detail with hand-studded gems and painted Nirvana logo was, as the team’s name suggests, immaculate.

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All in all, We Will Rock You: School Edition transcended a nostalgic celebration of Queen’s music. The cast and crew at Immaculata High School delivered an empowering reminder of the value found in individuality and how conformity can never overcome creativity.

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Bianca Monari, Critic
Colonel By Secondary School

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It’s “A Kind of Magic” that Immaculata High School bedazzled everyone with during their production of We Will Rock You: School Edition. Complete with elaborate costumes, engaging sound and lighting, riveting acting and music, all are welcome to “break free” from reality with this exciting musical.

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Released in 2006, We Will Rock You: School Edition was written by Ben Elton. It is a jukebox musical based on the iconic songs of the famous rock band, Queen. It takes place in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic world where a young boy, Galileo, refuses to follow the ways of the evil corporation, Globalsoft. Globalsoft controls the music its citizens are allowed to hear but Galileo longs for more. Soon he meets Scaramouche and the two venture into the desert and work together to defeat Globalsoft and return live rock music to the world.

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Bishop Alan Phyllip Rodriguez’s portrayal of Galileo was remarkable. Throughout the musical, Rodriguez effectively showcased the emotional depth and range of Galileo. When comically breaking out into song during casual speech, Rodriguez cleverly exaggerated his body language, creating an entertaining spectacle. Furthemore, Rodriguez’s vocals truly empowered the message of the production of wanting more. This was especially evident in “I Want to Break Free”, a duet between Galileo and Scaramouche. Through deliberate vocal modulation, Rodriguez transformed the song into an emotional one of wishing for a purpose.

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Kiarah Vilsaint’s performance as Scaramouche was captivating. Through deadpan, sarcastic delivery of lines, Vilsaint quickly established Scaramouche as a sensible, assertive character. This was also translated during Vilsaint’s songs where their voice was strong, clear, steady and well-supported by great breath control. Furthermore, Vilsaint’s vocal range was highlighted by their capability to gradually increase the volume of their voice rather than abruptly do so in order to deliver the intended, emotional effect of the song.

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Jeffrey Garcia’s depiction of Khashoggi, a devout, evil assistant was refreshing to see. Garcia effectively portrayed the cold demeanour of Khashoggi through the use of sharp, slow and calculated cadence, commanding hand gestures, and confident body language. Furthermore, when in the presence of the Killer Queen, played by August McComb, Garcia body language instantly became stiff and robotic, comedically transmitting the message of the Killer Queen’s control on people.

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The costumes, designed by The Immaculate Costumers Collection, lead by Julia Post, Lily Burns, and Elsie Austen were mesmerizing. Through distinct choices, characters’ personalities were effortlessly shown within their attire. For example, Globalsoft members wore mostly white, black, and silver clothes to present a sanitized appearance that lacked individuality while the Bohemians, a rebel group, sported colourful apparel that expertly communicated individuality. Furthermore, the Bohemians attire was mostly inspired by the 80s, which helped elevate the free spirit mantra of the group.

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In conclusion, through well-done performances by actors, dynamic vocals, and alluring costumes, Immaculate High School presented a memorable production of We Will Rock You: School Edition that resonated with both musical and rock band enthusiasts.

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About the reviews:

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The  Immaculata High School production was reviewed by 33 critics representing 11 schools. The critic discussions were mentored by teacher Marianna Klement of St. Pius X High School and student reviews were edited and selected for publication by teacher Sabrina Kayed of Hillcrest High School, who could see only the reviews, not the names or schools of the reviewers.

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Next review: Almonte & District High School’s production of Shattered: Time in Pieces.

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About the Cappies:

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The Citizen and 21 local high schools are participating in Cappies, a Washington, D.C. based program that uses high school critics to review high school theatre. The program is a unique partnership between the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Two schools from other boards in the region and three private schools have also joined. The Canada’s Capital Cappies season culminates with an awards Gala in June graciously hosted by the National Arts Centre. Follow Canada’s Capital Cappies on Instagram @OttawaCappies.

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