Shanklin Theatre was certainly rocking after TheatreTrain stormed the venue with their rendition of the musical ‘We Will Rock You’ on Sunday night. The TheatreTrain team split the cast into two, to give ample opportunities for as many youngsters to shine – I got to see the Rock Cast.

A musical set in the distant dystopian future, it features a catalogue of Queen classics. It is no mean feat to hold your own against these iconic songs, but that’s exactly what Lilly Valvona did. This young star was captivating throughout as Gallileo – flawless vocals, with an energy to match that helped keep the show flowing. Complimenting her was Florence Bellamy in fine voice as Scaramouche. The pair were at the helm of many of the show’s musical numbers, and should be very proud of their performances.

The show opened with an electric energy that the entire cast kept going in all of the chorus numbers. Choreographer Callum Davies set some challenging and creative numbers that were pulled off well by the young cast. I especially loved Another One Bites The Dust and Bohemian Rhapsody.

Brit was played ably by Lydia Jones, who not only showed off her excellent acting ability, but was also one of the stand-out dancers. Lyla Postlethwaite brought warmth to her role as Oz, and she and Brit worked well together in their scenes.

Mia Holmes as Killer Queen and Ruby Clarke as Khashoggi were suitably menacing and wicked in their roles as the baddies of the story. Khashoggi had some brilliant moments of comedy which were well-delivered and lapped up by the audience.

Jay Sangha took on the loveable role of Buddy, and delivered his lines with energy and wit.

There were so many children who took on smaller roles, whether it be in a dance number, or a solo in a song, or some lines delivered. It was great to see such an inclusive group who all seemed to be having the time of their lives on stage. Talent and passion was in abundance, and it was infectious especially during the group numbers.

The set was simple yet extremely effective, with lighting that accentuated the mood for each scene. It was also great to see the cast manage many props with ease.

Costumes, hair and makeup were brilliant, especially the array of colour on display during the Bohemians’ scenes. All of the children displayed bold individual styles, which really added to the storyline.

Company Director Julie Caudle and Show Director and Traci Stockman, alongside the wider creative team, should be extremely proud of the effort shown on stage. The round of applause at the end of the show was proof of how well received the show was – thanks to every single one of the kids performing.

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Reviewed by Bryony Bishop