For a vibrant and rocking night at the theatre get along to Hornsby Musical Society’s production of WE WILL ROCK YOU  at Hornsby RSL Club – but be quick as it is only on till Sunday 22 April. Though the musical is formed around the songs of the British rock band Queen is it also dripping with references to the works of other bands and the musicians of that era.

From a book by Ben Elton, the story is set in the distant future, where Earth is named iPlanet, is ruled by a might corporation and everyone thinks and acts the same, musical instruments and composition are forbidden and rock music is just a fading memory. Hope of freedom rests with an unlikely band of rebels called the Bohemians and Galileo the dreamer, who hears long-lost rock and pop words and phrases in his head, and his rather radical companion Scaramouche.

All the principal cast members are highly talented, enthusiastic performers, in particular Jenna Woolley as Scaramouche whose strong, commanding voice and understated ironic acting steals her scenes.

Likewise Abi Smith as Oz takes dominates the stage on occasions with her beautiful voice and classy dance moves. Annastasia Denton as Killer Queen is more low-key but still brings across the feel of evil and power.

Josh Brown as Galileo Figaro has just the right touch of innocence and naivety in his character to contrast with the tough female roles and comes into his own with his gripping rendition of ‘We Will Rock You’ and ‘We are the Champions‘ towards the end of the second half.

Paul Mepham as Buddy is perfect in his often comedic part as the old hopeful rocker, complete with headband and jewellery, treasuring his inaccurate knowledge of the secret relics of the past including “Hairless” the motorbike and the most important ancient video tape. His pronunciation of common objects is priceless.

Tim Selby as Brit is terrific as the partner of Oz and leads the Bohemians to hope for future where freedom reigns. Boshko Maksimovic plays the part of the evil Commander Khashoggi.

Another highlight of the show is the group of featured dancers, Fiorella Bamba, Hayley Dwight, Samantha Germain, Cheryl Pieres and Ashley Roberts in their black outfits and makeup to match. These dancers shine in a number of dance only pieces and as part of the general ensemble .

The ensemble, Simon Buchner,Vicki Devine, Jessica Edward, Ashlyn Lee, Thomas Lee, Lauren MacKinnon, Joshua Maher, Joanna McAdam, Daniel McInnes-Hull, Millie Reid-Alvarez, Melissa Trickey, Mark Vangelatos and Gabriella Viglione all bring excitement and life to the show, either as part of the motley crew of Bohemians or as supporters of Killer Queen with their scary writhing dance pieces.

A wonderful range of colourful costumes, clever lighting leading from one scene to another, and an eight piece on stage band compliment the singers and dancers to ensure a show full of action and familiar music.

Director Tamer Morris, choreographer Rebecca Savage and musical Director Matthew Herne have created a highly entertaining rock and roll experience. A high energy group ensemble ending the show ensured the opening night audience left on a high note singing their favourite Queen songs aloud or in their heads and recalling some of the very silly but highly amusing names and references.

WE WILL ROCK YOU from Hornsby Musical Society [Facebook] only runs until 22nd April, so get your tickets quick for a great night out.