Rotorua Girls’ and Boys’ high schools present Freaky Friday

The cast of Freaky Friday by Rotorua Girls' High School and Rotorua Boys' High School. Photo / Supplied

After hundreds of hours of rehearsals involving more than 100 students and staff from Rotorua Girls’ High and Rotorua Boys’ High Schools, the curtain is set to rise on the schools’ latest joint production - Freaky Friday the Musical.

The show opens at the Rotorua Girls’ High School’s Performing Arts Centre tonight.

Based on the original novel and Disney film, Freaky Friday is a story about empathy, perspective and the bond between a mother and daughter.

Freaky Friday actors Sarah-Maree Dupavillon (left) and Cherry Wheeler. Photo / Supplied

The story features an overworked mother (played by Sarah-Maree Dupavillon) and her teenage daughter (played by Maria Davenhill) who magically swap bodies.

Director Bridget Donovan said the cast and crew were a fantastic group of rangatahi who connected “almost instantly”.

“This 2025 cast has been outstanding. The exuberance you see on stage is the result of hard work, perseverance and their willingness to explore and create together. We’ve loved bringing it to life.”

The cast features 37 students, a crew of 20, and a staff production team of 25.

It promises to be a “true celebration of student talent and teamwork”.

The show runs most days until June 14, including evening and matinee shows.

See the Rotorua Girls’ High School website rghs.school.nz for more information and tickets, which are $15 for adults and $10 for students.