Bengaluru: Theatre lovers in the city are in for a treat this weekend as a local group prepares to stage the popular jukebox musical We will rock you, featuring songs by the legendary British rock band Queen.
The two-hour show is directed by veteran theatre personality Leila Alvares, who has been producing musicals for nearly three decades through her non-profit Cause Foundation. Known for presenting classics, Alvares said this year’s choice was influenced by the enthusiasm of her long-time cast members.
“To be honest, this musical was not my first choice. However, some of the actors I have been working with over the years are fans of the British band. I thought it would be a good way to appeal to the younger audience through their music,” she said.
A shift from classics
Over the years, Alvares has presented productions such as Joseph and the amazing technicolor dreamcoat, Fiddler on the roof, The Addams family, Grease and My fair lady. This year’s selection marks a departure from her usual repertoire, leaning towards a more contemporary jukebox format.
Originally staged in London’s West End in 2002, We will rock you ran for over a decade before concluding in 2014. It returned briefly in 2023 and is expected to make another comeback in 2026. “Since licences will not be given out from next year, we thought it was the best time to present it here,” Alvares explained.
Storyline and staging
Set 300 years in the future in an Orwellian society, the play envisions a world where individuality and free speech are suppressed, and the concept of rock music is erased. A rebel group called the Bohemians resists authoritarian control, setting the stage for the musical’s drama.
The Bengaluru production will combine live performance with LED projections featuring hand-painted backgrounds to bring the futuristic world to life.
Queen’s music on stage
The play features around 20 of Queen’s most popular songs, including Another one bites the dust, Killer queen, We will rock you and We are the champions. While several tracks have been shortened to keep the runtime tight, some numbers — such as Another one bites the dust — will be performed in full.
The cast includes Rahael Thomas, Samiksha Chawla, Deepa Jacob, Kieren Alvares Lynn and Prem Koshy, supported by a live band led by Aashish Paul.
Conclusion
With its mix of futuristic storytelling and iconic rock anthems, We will rock you promises to bring a new energy to Bengaluru’s theatre scene this weekend, appealing to both Queen fans and musical enthusiasts alike.