(Virginia Sherwood / NBC)

Network: NBC.
Episodes: 10 (hour).
Seasons: One.

TV show dates: March 13, 2018 — May 15, 2018.
Series status: Cancelled.

Performers include: Josh Radnor, Rosie Perez, Auli’i Cravalho, Damon J. Gillespie, Marley Shelton, Rarmian Newton, Ted Sutherland, Amy Forsyth, Casey W. Johnson, Taylor Richardson, Joe Tippett, and Shirley Rumierk.

TV show description:
Based on the Michael Sokolove book, Drama High, the Rise TV show comes from creators Jason Katims and Jeffrey Seller. The drama centers on Lou Mazzuchelli (Radnor), who is the fictional analogue to the real teacher from the book, Lou Volpe.

Although he is committed to his students at Stanton High School, Lou knows he needs to shake things up, in order to rekindle his passion for teaching. To that end, he petitions to direct the school’s theater program, but soon realizes he has enlisted for a whole lot more than he originally expected.

By changing the musical to the provocative “Spring Awakening,” and casting performers other than the usual subjects, Lou stirs up controversy that doesn’t end at the auditorium doors. The ripple effect washes over not only the program’s assistant director Tracey Wolfe (Perez), and the kids, but also football coach Sam Strickland (Tippett).

As the changes take hold, soon the faculty, student body, and even the town residents will find themselves caught up in the new spirit at the school. The drama explores the idea of finding inspiration in unexpected places.

Series Finale:
Episode #10 — Opening Night
During opening night of “Spring Awakening” personal crises and dilemmas percolate in the wings backstage as Simon (Ted Sutherland) struggles to overcome his biggest fear, Lilette (Auli’i Cravalho) withholds a huge development from Robbie (Damon J. Gillespie), Robbie has a momentous breakthrough, and Tracey (Rosie Perez) draws a line in the sand. Over the course of one evening, decisions are made that will change Lou (Josh Radnor) and Stanton Drama forever. (Courtesy NBC.)
First aired: May 15, 2018.

What do you think? Do you like the Rise TV series? Should this TV show have been cancelled or renewed for a second season on NBC?