Freaky Friday

By Bridget Carpenter, Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, based on the novel by Mary Rodgers. St Mark’s Anglican Community School. Directed by Chris McRae. Barbara Godwin Performing Arts Centre, Hillarys, WA. Jul 22 - 26, 2025

I had the pleasure of attending the “soft opening” of St Mark’s Anglican Community School’s production of Disney’s Freaky Friday. For St Mark’s “soft opening” is quite literal, as I found myself sharing an auditorium with a hundred or so soft toys - a wonderful friendly audience for the cast to have at what was really their final rehearsal.

This was shaping up to be a fine production. The set includes a rear scaffold, which helps to highlight some of the large cast - although the whole auditorium is used to perform, with ensemble and principals often dancing in the aisles and the area in front of the stage.

A live band comprised mostly of student musicians, sounds excellent, under the care of Musical Director Catherine Clarnett, and is visible throughout beneath the rear scaffold, while vocal director Leah Guelfi has guided developing voices to their full potential. 

Mobile set pieces are moved swiftly and effectively by a large student crew, with lighting by Devlin Turbin, emotive and effective.

A cast of 49 are headed by leading ladies Rhianna Cole playing Katherine Blake and Emily Prestage playing daughter Ellie. They convey the story of being trapped in each other's body throughout most of the show very well, with convincing characterisations, both singing superbly. I particularly enjoyed Rhianna’s portrayal of vulnerability and genuine apprehension.

Toby Green brought maturity to Katherine’s fiancée Mike, while Charlie Riley stole scenes as little brother Fletcher, showing great vocal flair as he puppeteered throughout the show. Georgia Plant brought heart to Corey, Katherine’s frustrated assistant.

Good work also from Blake Carter, bringing confidence and charm to heart-throb Adam, while Tyeesha Jayatilika and Zoe Dolan were lovely as Ellie's friends Gretchen and Hannah, while Elise Wilkin clearly relished playing bully Savannah, with cutting accuracy.

With eighteen other ensemble members playing small roles, it is impossible to mention everyone, but all swung into their characters with gusto, returning to the ensemble with energy to create a vibrant and busy production. Carissa Tucker provided fun choreography that used the space well, which was well executed throughout.

Kudos also for the front of house decor and theming. The audience become immersed in this world from the moment they arrive.

Lovely to see a cast that are clearly having a fabulous time - which leaves the audience feeling great too. Congratulations to all involved - you should feel very proud.

Kimberley Shaw

Photosgrapher: Katie Fassom