Freaky Friday

Stepping into the whimsical world of Freaky Friday: The Musical feels akin to attending a delightfully eccentric wedding buffet, where laughter and Disney magic are the main courses.

Hannah Aouchan, as Ellie, and Fiona Brennan, as Katherine, take the lead when they exchange places in the mother-daughter switch-up. It is their show, and they work hard to achieve it. Like a bride balancing on a towering cake, Brennan leaves the audience in stitches with her portrayal of teenage antics from a motherly perspective. She shines in this role and her comedic timing is as precise as slicing into a layer cake. She makes the audience giggle as she grapples with the chaos. Aouchan, on the other hand, serves her performance with a hearty helping of cringe-worthy moments. Handling school dramas, pesky bullies, and a cheeky crush, she treads the fine line of awkwardness with flair. The music and lyrics chosen for the production serve as a narrative device for the pair, giving the audience a deeper insight into Katherine and Ellie's challenges and growth during the body swap experience. They are a heartwarming mother-daughter duo and the combination of vocal talents from both actresses in a fun Disney score is exceptional.

As the younger brother who is caught in the whirlwind of his family's chaotic adventure, Lawson Booth delivers a performance filled with contagious energy and innocence. His portrayal is both comedic and heartwarming, capturing Fletcher’s earnest vulnerability and big dreams, making him an endearing presence who was a bit of a heart stealer with the audience. 

As Mike, the supportive fiancé to Katherine, Luke Derrick's portrayal is marked by gentle strength and unwavering patience. He skilfully balances the comedic and tender moments, providing a stable anchor amidst the show's chaotic events. Derrick’s chemistry with his fellow cast members, particularly during interactions with his soon-to-be stepfamily, underscores his character's genuine affection and commitment. Derrick has crafted an accepting and loving character, becoming a pivotal figure in this engaging tale.

Eddie Langford takes on the role of Adam, the charming and laid-back high school heartthrob. With his natural charisma, Langford effortlessly transitions from being the object of Ellie's affection to a genuinely supportive friend. His musical numbers sparkle with vibrancy, showcasing his vocal talents. 
The ensemble cast, mostly a collective of youth in the school scenes, breathes the backdrop that accentuates Katherine’s adventure as she tries to navigate the world of school. There are friends and mean girls and cheerleaders aplenty, punishing teachers and that heartthrob everyone swoons over. They do a smashing job with the choreography and ensemble numbers.  Special note to Jonathan Barons, who kept turning up in quirkier and quirkier characters. 

This show thrives under the imaginative guidance of its creative team. At the helm is director Jordan Anderson, whose vision seamlessly intertwines comedy and heartfelt emotion, creating a visionary feast of Disney charm interwoven with quirky new musical numbers. His set swirls with flats spinning elegantly to quickly move between locations backed with hues of red and yellow. Choreographer Brooke Rose injects energy into the dance numbers, ensuring that each movement complements the storyline's playful and poignant themes. Meanwhile, musical directors Koren Beale and Peter Thorton shape the musical landscape, weaving vibrant melodies that bring the characters' emotions to life from the zesty "I Got This" to the hilarity of "Oh Biology" — complete with frogs. The ensemble brings it all together with "I'm Sorry" and "No More Fear", blending comedic antics with tender moments like a perfectly layered trifle. Musical numbers such as "Bring My Baby (Brother) Home" offer a platter of deliciously diverse emotions and something for everyone. And then there’s "What You Got", a dynamic showstopper that bridges generations with a theatrical flourish.

It is a delightful celebration of familial love and understanding, in a rollicking romp through unexpected adventures and toe-tapping tunes. This one leaves audiences enjoying the nostalgia of a well-loved tale blended and served as a theatrical Disney delight!

Nicole Smith