13: THE MUSICAL

Director: Emah Lane

Choreographer: Rachael Bloemendal

Musical Director: Baxter Ward

Music & Lyrics: Jason Robert Brown

Book: Dan Elish & Robert Horn

Morrinsville Theatre

9-18 April 2026

I think it is fair to say that most people reading this review will have been thirteen. Remember the angst of trying to fit in, trying to find your place in the world? Even worse, what if you had to move from a big city to a small town just prior to a major life milestone. 13: The Musical follows the story of Evan as he navigates his new reality in small town Indiana, a far cry from bustling New York city.

Notable productions of 13: The Musical include the 2008 Broadway version that marked Ariana Grande’s professional debut, and a hugely popular 2022 Netflix remake. Waikato audiences can experience 13: The Musical at Morrinsville Theatre between tonight and 18 April 2028.

Over the past few years Ezra Arnephy has appeared in multiple productions in the region. His hard work paid off when he scored the lead role of Evan Goldman. Arnephy was an all-singing, all-dancing, all-acting performer who captivated the audience from his opening numbers, “Thirteen” and “Becoming a Man.”

For preview night, Patrice was played by both Lily Dixon and Miya Duligall who are sharing the role throughout the season (their individual performances are specified on the iTicket website). Both proved to be capable performers portraying Evan’s first friend in Indiana, delivering the big vocals required for this major part.  

Emma Lamb who impressed in the titular role of Annie in the 2024 season was an inspired choice to play Archie, a teen with numerous health issues. She brought a respectful sensitivity to the challenging role. Lamb is a mesmerising and talented performer.

Samara Cables (Kendra), Olive Tapper (Lucy) and Denzel Stevens (Brett) were thoroughly entertaining as the popular girl, jealous mean girl, and athlete respectively. An audience highlight was “Bad Bad News” by Anna Austin (Malcolm), Lucas Belmar (Simon), Emogen Renshaw (Richie), and Ben Wong (Eddie). The quartet wholeheartedly leaned into comedic elements in the lyrics and choreography.

The ensemble filled the stage, and each person had created a memorable and distinct character. This was most noticeable in the movie theatre and classroom scenes where the whole social hierarchy and the wide variety of personalities were on full display. Bravo to every performer on the stage, you were outstanding.  

Musical Director Baxter Ward was fortunate to have many gifted vocalists in the cast (who ranged in age from 11 to 17), and he found room to let them all have their moments. Choreographer Rachael Bloemendal rolled out more of her dynamic and energetic routines and had the drilled the cast comprehensively.  

Director Emah Lane had to work within a tight two-month rehearsal period, but she managed to whip up a complete show. Morrinsville Theatre youth productions are an excellent training ground. From set changes to quick changes, delivering energetic choreography, singing, acting, and remembering to find their light, there are a lot for these young performers to remember. The entire cast of 26 appeared ready for their opening night performance. As a creative team, Lane, Bloemendal and Ward’s strengths worked seamlessly together, and their combined talents have produced a vibrant version of 13: The Musical.

Tickets start at $25 + booking fees. Some of the eight performances are SOLD OUT, and others are close to it. There are a couple of matinees in the mix which would be a fab school holiday activity to get the teens off their devices, out of the house, and admiring a stellar collection of flip phones, slick 2000s dance moves, and being entertained by many hilarious one-liners.

Running time: 2 hours including intermission.

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