Actors Lydia Curtis and Joel Marshall might not look like twin brother and sister but for the purposes of Tauhara College’s production of High School Musical they are.
The show opens on Thursday night this week before Friday and Saturday night performances, as well as a Saturday matinee.
In an interview with LakeFM’s Jesse Archer, Lydia said she enjoyed playing Sharpay Evans – the character many might love to hate.
“She’s got so much attitude to work with, and I enjoy working with Joel as my twin brother (Ryan Evans). I think we make a pretty good twin duo.”
The show, originally written in 2006, is one that some might find “a bit cheesy” said Lydia, but many will know the songs and be tapping their feet once they hear them again.
Meanwhile the production team said it was excited to be bringing the energetic and entertaining production to the stage.
Based on the hit Disney film, High School Musical follows the story of Troy Bolton, the captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, a talented new student with a love of singing. When the pair audition for the school musical, they challenge expectations, friendships, and the idea that students must fit into just one group.
The cast and crew have been rehearsing for months, learning choreography, perfecting harmonies, and working together to create a show full of colour and excitement.
Behind the scenes, students and staff have also played a huge role, helping with lighting, sound, costumes, and set design, said co-producer Helen Edgecombe.
Director Aj Chapman felt that preparations were coming together.
"The level of talent on stage is seriously impressive. They are pouring their heart and soul into their performance, I'm incredibly proud of them all.”
At its heart, the show is about being yourself, trying new things, and supporting one another — messages that are always relevant in a school community.
Edgecombe, is urging locals to get ready to clap, sing along, and cheer on the students.
And without a hint of cheesiness herself said: “This is one school production you won’t want to miss — because we really are all in this together.”
The show is on at the school hall Thursday to Saturday June 4-6 at 7pm with a matinee also on the Saturday.
Tickets, $15, are available through Trybooking.
