Social distancing restrictions brought about by the corona virus pandemic have not stopped a local theatre group preparing for its latest production.

Taylorian Productions was due to begin work on its latest play, a version of the raucous comedy musical School of Rock.

Work on the show began in earnest a couple of weeks ago and, with the show originally set to open at the Gaiety Theatre in August this year, the cast would be getting together to hold their first script read-through.

Obviously the current restrictions have made such a gathering impossible, but the combined cast and production crew have managed to hold their meetings online using video conferencing app Zoom instead.

The initial rehearsals included the main characters, which is led by Lorcan O’Mahony, who stars as Dewey Finn, the role made famous by Jack Black in the original film.

Kristine Sutcliffe stars as the school principal Rosalie Mullins and Jack Divers and Shay Marsden star as Ned Schneebly and Patty.

With a cast involving more than 45 actors, ensemble singers and featuring two teams of young performers who will alternate roles during the performance when it finally comes to the stage, the logistics in holding the initial rehearsals online are mind-boggling.

However, the production team, who have the unenviable task of organising the meetings, say that the cast have been very professional and adaptable throughout.

’It was really quite incredible and something quite wonderful to see everyone on the screen, watching them read through their various parts, some more animated than others,’ said Vikki McCausland, who is head of marketing for Taylorian.

’They were really getting into character.

’Already the standard is so high so I can only imagine what it will be like when it is performed on the Gaiety Stage.’

Matt James, co-founder and producer of Taylorian Productions, said: ’We are so proud of how everyone has pulled together in these uncertain times but particularly the young company who have already put hours and hours of work into practice for the show.

’We can’t wait to continue working with them so they get their chance to show the Manx public what up and coming talent is being nurtured in the Isle of Man by all in the creative industry.’