DISNEY'S FREAKY FRIDAY: THE MUSICAL
- writeonarts
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
Director: Jonathan Hawthorn
Choreographer: Emelia Hawthorn
Band Director: Todd Rohan Smith
Vocal Director: Dane Moeke
Producer: Riverlea Theatre
Riverlea Theatre, 22 November-13 December 2025
Mary Rodger’s 1972 novel Freaky Friday has been reimagined on film five times in the last fifty years. For their end of year production, Riverlea Theatre under the direction of Jonathan Hawthorn delivered an up-to-date version of the hilarious musical where a mother (Katherine) and her teenage daughter (Ellie) swap bodies the day before Katherine’s second wedding.
I don’t think I’ve ever used the phrase “stole the show” in a review, but I can assure you that Beth Vickers as Katherine stole the show. Vickers is a vocal coach, and it was never in doubt that she had the chops and technique to nail the challenges of the role. It was her embodiment of both characters that sealed the deal as a talented actor.
Kyra-Mae Wilson (Ellie) has been kept super busy over the past few years with musicals at school and at Riverlea Theatre. Her growing performance CV is a testament to her considerable talent and work ethic. Andy Derby (Mike) has become a regular leading man at Riverlea, and he brought the role of doting fiance and soon-to-be stepfather to life. The part of the Fletcher has been shared by two young performers, Theo Johnston and Spencer Keelty. On opening night, Keelty’s voice was melodious and pure. Derby and Keelty played off each other well, proving to be a great collaboration.
Amongst the rest of the cast, Tayla Marie Cassells performance as Hannah was exceptional. Her dance background has given her an incredible sense of spatial awareness, and her knack for pushing the envelope with ludicrous expressions makes her a delight to watch. Notable performances were also given by Brooke Ottaway as Torrey, Alxyz Adove (Adam), and Sekonaia Faletau (Fish Vendor/Mr Blumen). Moshe Merz (Senor O’Brian/Kowalski) was a crowd favourite with his physical antics and magnificent voice.
Todd Rohan Smith lead an eight-piece band including familiar names Kathleen Tay (Keyboard Two), Renee Kenyon (Flute/Clarinet/Saxophone), Paul Cakebread (Trumpet/Flugelhorn), and Ashin Singh (Guitar). These talented musos kept a lively pace with an array of styles from musical theatre to pop to funk. The audience was extremely appreciative of the band when footage of the group played on screen at the end. Unfortunately, the superlong playout meant that the band did not get the usual second round of applause as people had left the theatre during the outro.
Vocal Director Dane Moeke highlighted the depth and range of the cast, and the harmonies were splendid. Diction and breath control were impressive throughout thanks to Moeke’s attention to detail. Stand out numbers included “Just One Day” (the rapid-fire lyrics were fantastic), “Busted” and “Bring My Baby (Brother) Home”.
Emelia Hawthorn’s choreography was innovative and spirited. The gym class routine and all the large-scale numbers were toe-tapping spectacles. Hopefully as the cast settles into the season, the less experienced will relax and enjoy performing Hawthorn’s playful routines.
Jonathan Hawthorn’s cast of 24 featured familiar and new faces, and he kept everyone busy, several with double roles. Hawthorn created a memorable, high-energy show utilising his crew to their full potential. The switch between Katherine and Ellie was well executed. Clever projections, LED lighting, a riser for narration, and smooth scene changes provided a polished show.
Freaky Friday is ideal for mothers of teenage daughters, and teenage daughters too! The casting was great, the band was awesome, and the production team and crew have created an entertaining night out. Riverlea Theatre’s Freaky Friday is a freakishly good way to wrap up the year.
PS. Congratulations Moshe and Tayla on the announcement of your engagement.