Philly’s Got Talent: School of Rock is Taking Over the TLA for an All-Day Family-Friendly Music Festival
South Street is about to get a serious volume boost as Kids Rock South Street makes its debut on February 22, bringing hundreds of young musicians, live performances, and all-ages energy to two iconic venues for a full day of music and community celebration.
Presented by School of Rock Philadelphia, Kids Rock South Street runs from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Theatre of Living Arts (TLA) and Nikki Lopez, transforming the corridor into a youth-powered music festival. Tickets are available at tlaphilly.com
While this marks the first-ever Kids Rock South Street, the concept itself has deep roots in the city. The event evolved from Kids Rock Philly, a long-running showcase previously held at World Cafe Live that began in 2016. As a longtime Queen Village resident, School of Rock Philadelphia owner Lisa Riley saw an opportunity to reimagine the event in a way that uplifts South Street and supports its local businesses—bringing positive energy, foot traffic, and live music back to the neighborhood.
The festival features 400+ student musicians, ages 8–18, representing School of Rock locations across the region, including Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, Downingtown, Hockessin, Newtown, and the Main Line. Expect everything from funk and punk to pop and metal, delivered with the kind of confidence and stage presence that proves rock is alive and well in the next generation.
A single festival wristband grants access to all performances at both venues, and can also be shown at participating South Street businesses for special offers and discounts throughout the day.
Performance Schedule
Doors open at 12:00 PM at both venues, with music starting at 12:30 PM.
12:30 – 3:30 PM
- TLA: “Best Of” Show (Philadelphia, Hockessin, Downingtown)
- Nikki Lopez: House Bands (Cherry Hill, Main Line, Newtown)
4:00 – 7:00 PM
- TLA: “Best Of” Show (Cherry Hill, Main Line, Newtown)
- Nikki Lopez: House Bands (Philadelphia, Hockessin, Downingtown)
“Kids Rock South Street brings School of Rock students from across the region together for a day of live music on one of Philadelphia’s most iconic streets,” says Lisa Riley. “From Best Of showcases to House Band sets, these students bring serious talent and high-energy performances that deserve a big stage.”
Tickets & Details
- All-ages event
- $25 in advance via TLAphilly.com
- $30 day-of at the TLA box office
Whether you’re a proud parent, a South Street regular, or just someone who loves live music with heart, Kids Rock South Street promises a full day of unforgettable performances—and a reminder that the future of music is loud, talented, and ready to rock.
