By Amelia Jewett ’27
The Beverly High School Musical Theatre Department is hard at work preparing for its annual spring musical. From April 10–12, this dedicated group of students will showcase their talents in this year’s production of Freaky Friday.
This musical stage adaptation is based on the beloved 1972 novel by Mary Rodgers and the hit Disney films. The storyline follows Katherine, an overworked mother, and her teenage daughter, Ellie Blake, on the craziest day of their lives. The two don’t see eye to eye on many issues, creating conflict within their home. The day before Katherine’s wedding, a magical occurrence causes them to swap bodies. Now forced to literally spend the day in each other’s shoes, they begin to understand one another’s struggles, obstacles, and emotions. Their mother-daughter relationship is transformed through hilarious, vibrant, and heartfelt music that will elicit both laughs and tears from the audience.
The score, composed by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, contains a variety of unique songs with an overall pop-rock score. The major numbers, “Just One Day”, “Oh, Biology”, “Not Myself Today”, and “Go” feature a wide selection of company members with intense vocals and choreography. The assortment of different characters and ensemble (teachers, parents, students, wedding guests) allows for the cast to really immerse themselves in their distinct roles.
This is a show you won’t want to miss. Students and staff have put countless hours into rehearsals, music, and set building. Abilities of all kinds are highlighted through energetic dance numbers, captivating songs, and transformative scenes. Additionally, all music is performed live by the school’s pit orchestra, which was nominated for Best Student Pit Orchestra in Massachusetts by METG for the past two years, winning in 2024. Unlike many other high school productions that use prerecorded tracks, Beverly musicians pour endless time into perfecting Broadway-level music. They rehearse separately at the beginning of the process, then join with the cast as performances get closer.
Tickets are reserved seating and are available on the Beverly Public Schools Panther Productions website. Prices are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Performances will take place Friday, April 10, and Saturday, April 11, at 7 PM, with a Sunday matinee at 2 PM on April 12. If you’re looking for great entertainment and a way to support the local theater community, be sure to purchase your tickets today!
Image credits: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freaky_Friday_%28musical%29
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