“This is my favorite music of every show I’ve done. I think people will love this show even though they aren’t so familiar with it,” said NDA Musical Director Andrea Gilson about the upcoming musical. 

A total of 37 Notre Dame students make up the cast for this year’s musical, Freaky Friday. It is a similar size cast to their recent production of Annie. 

Gilson explained the storyline of Freaky Friday. “The story examines the relationship between a mother and daughter who one day magically switch bodies.”

She continued, “This is a super fun, teenage show. It has a high school musical vibe.”

This musical was chosen because Gilson wanted to “challenge the performers.” She wanted something more modern and kid focused. 

The leads in the show will be played by seniors Amelia Churdimsky and Maame Asiamah. They have both been a part of the NDA theater program since their freshman year. 

“I have seen so much growth in their performances,” explained Gilson. “They work beautifully together, and they are so professional to work with. They are a perfect fit for these roles.”

Gilson works alongside some other NDA staff in the production of the musical. Joey Rickards assists with the sets and costumes, Maria HInnendael is the music director, Megan Herbst is the main choreographer, and Arielle Brown assists with the choreography.

The stage and tech crew as well as the pit orchestra also play pivotal roles in the production of the musical. 

“The musical can’t run without them all,” Gilson explained. 

Students interested in joining stage crew can attend an informational meeting on November 18 in Room P106 after school. 

There will be four performances of Freaky Friday from January 23-25 at 7p.m. and on the 26th at 2 p.m.