Needham High School’s Students Acting to Make a Difference (SAMD) will present “Freaky Friday: A New Musical” Oct. 23-25 at Newman Elementary School Auditorium. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit OrigiNation, a Boston nonprofit that provides performing arts programs for young people.
SAMD is a student-led theater production company that provides an inclusive theatrical experience while using students’ creative talents to support local nonprofits. The group produces one show each school year to raise funds for a selected organization.
OrigiNation provides dance, theater arts and African history education to more than 1,500 young people in Boston each year. Its programs emphasize self-respect, health, nutrition, education, self-esteem and the influence of African culture on contemporary art forms.
Based on Mary Rodgers’ celebrated novel and the popular Disney films, “Freaky Friday” follows an overworked mother and her teenage daughter who magically swap bodies and have just one day to set things right. Through their experience, Katherine and Ellie gain a better understanding of each other’s struggles, learn self-acceptance and discover the love and mutual respect that connect them.
The production is directed by Kristen Mazzocchi and Amber Crossman, with musical direction by Jonathan VanderWoude.
Performances are scheduled for Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 25, at 2 p.m. at Newman Auditorium.
Tickets cost $12 for students and $17 for adults and are available through the NHS Fine and Performing Arts website.
For ticket information, contact Valerie Maio at valerie_maio@needham.k12.ma.us. For more information about SAMD and the production, contact club adviser Kristen Mazzocchi at Kristen_Mazzocchi@needham.k12.ma.us.
