The Blues Brothers, Stompin’ Tom Connors, the Ramones and David Bowie will all be part of the fantasy lineup at next week’s Rock of Ages air guitar/lip syncing concert.
Although the real artists won’t be in attendance, for one night only teachers from R.F. Staples will get the chance to let their hair down and fill their favourite rock idols’ shoes at Westlock’s Cultural Arts Theatre March 12.
But as much fun as it is to dress up like a rock star for a night, event creator and organizer Jerry Buchko says the event will also help raise money for a valuable cause.
“Some of the money raised will help to purchase a new digital sign for [the school],” Buchko said.
The new sign will help parents and students stay informed about what’s going on at school and help reduce maintenance requirements.
And that’s not the only thing lighting up at the school.
Students and staff have been prepping stage props and lights for weeks and with just a few days until the big night, 22 songs and accompanying costumes are all set to go.
“We’ve got backstage help, technical lighting and sound, makeup and costumes for all of the actors and actresses,” Buchko said.
“[Students] are making masks for Another Brick in the Wall and then they’re making some other props for one of our skits about the Seven Dwarfs.”
But helping to prepare is one thing. When the big night arrives, seating for the event will be adults only.
It’s a wine and cheese event, so it’s for adults only. There’s some adult content,” Buchko said with a laugh.
“It’s a chance for the teachers to let loose a bit, show our corny side.”
The annual fundraiser for R.F. Staples School started in 2013 when Buchko, who also teaches drama at the school, tried out an air guitar skit in one of his classes.
“Parents and grandparents wanted to watch,” Buchko said.
