It was that time of year again when our Quarry Theatre transformed into a hotbed of live ‘rock n roll’, all in aid of charity. Rock Night has become somewhat of a tradition and has grown in popularity as well as quality year on year. With an eclectic set list to rival Glastonbury, and performed by talented pupils from Bedford School, Bedford Girls’ School and Bedford Modern, the audience were treated to a wild night out.
Kicking off the evening was a collaboration of Bedford School boys and girls from Bedford Modern, who formed a funk band and belted out popular hits including a superb rendition of Stevie Wonder’s Superstition.
Other hits included fabulous versions of popular rock, funk and pop songs including Duffy’s Mercy, Niall Horan’s Nice to Meet Ya, Wheatus’ Teenage Dirtbag, White Stripes Seven Nations Army and a rocking performance of Metallica’s Enter Sandman by Upper Sixth Former Jamie Williams. Our staff band ‘Funk Tank’ also made an appearance and did not disappoint with hits including old favourites such as Spandau Ballet’s Gold.
Of course, no set list is complete without a performance of The Killers’ Mr Brightside, which was expertly executed by Fifth Former Dylan Swain and cranked the crowd up a notch further.
A special mention must also go to Lower Sixth Former, Jonathan Coughlin, whose guitar solo was quite frankly stunning – and he delighted fans when he jumped off the stage and into the audience to continue his set.
Sealing the night in true Ibiza style was Upper Sixth Former Ollie Dwight, who took to the decks to put on a fantastic show of dance anthems to a back drop of strobe lighting.
Music Teacher Mr Thom Rooke, who organised the night, told us, “The general quality of performances was excellent this year – better than ever, in fact. The sound was great and the night rocked.”
As well as raising the roof of The Quarry Theatre, the talented bunch also raised a staggering £600 for the charity Music for Memory.
If you missed out, never fear, you can watch the highlights in this short film or browse through the photo gallery below.
