Caelan is in the Band!

We are so proud to announce that our incredible Jigsaw Bushey student Caelan is currently appearing in the UK tour of “School of Rock The Musical”.

Based on the hilarious hit movie, this new musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band – sensationally performed live by the production’s young actors every night with roof-raising energy!

We caught up with Caelan to hear all about his experience so far in the band!

What was the audition process like? 

To begin with I was asked to film some self tapes in the first rounds from home due to lockdown. This was more challenging as I had to get good lighting and make sure everyone at home was quiet (which wasn’t easy with two younger siblings!). After this I was invited for a face to face audition which I was very nervous for but I also had a lot of fun and enjoyed throughout, I had to learn some songs from the show to perform and speak my lines with an American accent!

How did you feel when you heard you had been given the role?

When I heard that I had gained the part I felt shocked and extremely excited. It’s my favourite film and musical!

Tell us a little about your role?

I play the character of Mason. In the show he is a bit of a nerdy kid who runs the lights and the tech for the show. 

What has been your favourite moment so far?

My favourite moment so far was getting a standing ovation in Wolverhampton from the audience at the end of our finale.  

How do you think Jigsaw has helped you?

Jigsaw has taught me the key skills I need for performing. They support me in all three disciplines and have encouraged me throughout. Without Katie and the Jigsaw Agency I wouldn’t have known about the auditions or been given the opportunity to apply. 

How do you balance performing with school and other activities?

Performing is one of the main things I enjoy doing however when I am not on tour I attend school each day with my friends and do extra curriculum activities such as football which is also another passion of mine. I also enjoy playing on my games consoles during my free time and seeing friends and family. 

What are your favourite musicals/plays and what would be your dream role in the future?

The School of rock is my favourite show which is why I am thrilled to be a part of the show. I also really enjoyed watching ‘Thriller’ for my birthday as I am a huge MJ fan and this was a real treat! My dream role to play one day would be Dewey Finn from the school of rock (although I need to learn how to play the guitar first).I love his character because he is fun, energetic and his lines include a lot of comedy which is something I really enjoy. 

What is it like working with a professional cast?

I have really enjoyed working with a professional cast and others who feel the same way I do about performing, I feel I have learnt a lot from everyone especially Chris the director who gives great advice and support to us all. The children I am working alongside are insanely talented some playing their own instruments throughout the entire show! 

Describe how it feels to perform on stage in three words?

Incredible, Electrifying, Amazing!

Anything else to tell us?

Being on tour has been an experience I will never forget. To have the opportunity to travel to different locations with different audiences is truly awesome. I feel like I have made life long friends amongst the cast and don’t want the experience to end! 

We are delighted that Caelan is loving every moment of this amazing experience! His Jigsaw Bushey Manager Katie and Emily from Jigsaw Arts Management can’t wait to see him rock the stage in Oxford in December!

You can see him in action too by heading to www.uktour.schoolofrockthemusical.com.