We will rock you...

  If the words Scaramouche, Bohemian Rhapsody, Galileo don't seem like random words to you then more likely than not, you've heard of Queen. Everyone knows the immortal lines from the Queen song 'We will rock you." What everyone doesn't know about is the musical by the same name that is currently playing in downtown Toronto at the Canon Theatre. If you're a fan of the iconic band, this is the show for you. And if you're not, then don't be shy because you will enjoy the music nevertheless.

   Bringing together all the classics from Queen, this live performance is all about the music. The first thing I noticed about the actors and musicians was that every single one of them looked like they thoroughly enjoyed themselves belting one Queen classic after another. From the main leads to the supporting cast to the amazing lot of musicians, this show is an out and out entertainer - you have funny moments, you have drama, you have your cliches and you have truly innovative moments. The storyline is based on a world where rock is dead and how the main leads set out to bring back the music. Interspersed through it all are different songs from Queen. The outstanding vocals of the performers in this show make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience (special mention has to be made of Yvan Pedneault who plays Galileo, Erica Peck who plays Scaramouche and Alana Bridgewater as Killer Queen). And you won't be wrong if you feel like you're part of a real live rock concert. 

  For many who don't know about the history of Queen, it's a surprise to find out that lead singer Freddie Mercury (actual name Farukh Balsara) was part Indian who in fact lived in India during the early years of his life. Apart from his histronics, his powerful vocals gave rock a new identity and the group churned out hit after hit. Guitarist Brian May is a living legend who is often considered one of the best guitarists on the planet. Apart from these two creative genuises, Roger Taylor and John Deacon made Queen a legendary band whose albums continue to sell at a phenomenal rate all around the world.

  While I can't even imagine what it must have been like to hear Freddie Mercury and Brian May live, watching the play was a great reminder of how music can truly take any performance to another level. After a point, you ignore the flaws in the script and appreciate the music for what it is. Having to recreate the songs and music to Queen's tracks couldn't have been an easy task but it definitely is a fantastic effort and a definite must-listen to - for those who are returning fans of Queen and to newbies who want to listen to some great, good old fashioned rock. LISTEN UP to We Will Rock You!