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FROM THE DIRECTOR

It has been both a challenge and privilege to take on the role of director for this production Turning a school sporting venue into a theatre has tested us all; but we are proud of what we have been able to produce over 12 months of planning and rehearsing.

This is the second time I’ve directed a High School Musical show; and it wasn’t long before all the iconic songs were playing over and over again in my head Whilst our show tonight is a shorter version of the original movie and full-length stage show, many of the classic moments and characterisations are still there to bring back the memories of a movie that is etched in the minds of generations

I have been blessed to work with many passionate people throughout the process for our show They are listed in this program, and to you all, I say, “Thank you ” . To take my crazy ideas and make them reality has been amazing to witness A show like this doesn’t just happen without each and every person in the team giving tirelessly of their time and talents. We’re all in this together!

I do feel it’s appropriate to name a couple in the team of volunteers. To my fellow Production Team colleagues Mr Stephen Price and Mrs Robyn Dietrich – thank you for the many many hours you have devoted to our show

Finally, thank you to our students, who have put so much time and effort into entertaining you tonight From the tiniest skater to our Year 12 students performing in their final show, tonight is their moment to shine We are so proud!

Ian Dietrich - Director

SCENES & MUSICAL NUMBERS

SYNOPSIS

The CHEERLEADERS of East High School spiritedly welcome the students back from winter break (Wildcat Cheer) GABRIELLA MONTEZ, a new student, tells TAYLOR McKESSIE about her ski trip; Gabriella flashes back to the New Year’s Eve karaoke contest where she met TROY BOLTON and they sang a duet together (Start of Something New). Troy tells CHAD DANFORTH that he made a New Year’s resolution to ask Gabriella out

That morning the students – including Drama Club president SHARPAY EVANS and her brother RYAN EVANS – gather in homeroom, where MS. DARBUS announces the auditions for Juliet and Romeo, the winter musicale written by student KELSI NIELSEN When Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan, Troy, Chad, and Taylor use cellphones in class, Ms Darbus sentences them to detention later that day In the hallway after homeroom, Troy and Gabriella are shocked to discover they now attend the same school.

At basketball practice, COACH BOLTON runs drills with the JOCKS (Get’cha Head in the Game), but Troy’s mind strays to his duet with Gabriella That afternoon, Gabriella demonstrates her intelligence in MS TENNY’s chemistry class and Taylor tries to convince her to join the Science Decathlon team. Meanwhile, Sharpay and Ryan hatch a plan to trick Gabriella into joining the team to keep her from auditioning for the musical and threatening their stardom Later, at Ms Darbus’s detention, Coach Bolton bursts in, trying to find out why his players aren’t at practice, and finds the students doing acting exercises

The theatre is buzzing the next afternoon as THESPIANS, including JAMES, SUSAN, CATHY, and CYNDRA, audition for the musical (Auditions) Sharpay and Ryan audition for the lead roles with a creative take on a song Kelsi wrote for the musical (What I’ve Been Looking For) Troy and Gabriella arrive too late to audition, but Kelsi encourages them to sing her song as written, and the two of them perform as Ms. Darbus listens from the back of the auditorium (What I’ve Been Looking For – Reprise); she agrees to give them a callback.

The next morning, Sharpay is furious to see Troy and Gabriella on the callback list In the cafeteria, members of the various cliques are alternately inspired and dismayed at Troy’s transcendence of his clique (Stick to the Status Quo); ZEKE BAYLOR reveals to the Jocks that he likes to bake, and MARTHA COX tells the BRAINIACS that hip-hop is her passion – much to KRATNOFF’s dismay

Escaping the chaos, to the Cattle Club, Gabriella and Troy share their fears and reminisce about how simple things used to be. Meanwhile, the Jocks and Brainiacs devise a plan to get Troy and Gabriella to focus on basketball and the Science Decathlon, and Sharpay hatches her own plan to take them out of the running for the musical She will convince Ms Darbus that Troy is trying to sabotage auditions as revenge for putting him in detention.

Later that afternoon, the Brainiacs try to convince Gabriella to concentrate on the Science Decathlon while the Jocks remind Troy to keep his head in the game (Counting on You) They put their plan into action by tricking Troy into saying that Gabriella and the musical don’t mean anything to him while secretly broadcasting this proclamation to Gabriella.

The next day, Troy apologizes to Gabriella, and they decide to participate in the callbacks after all Their plan is complicated when JAC SCOTT, the ‘Velvet Fog of East High’ (radio announcer), proclaims that the time of the callbacks has changed. Sharpay had succeeded in convincing Ms. Darbus to change the time of the callbacks to conflict with the Science Decathlon and championship game Troy and Gabriella both say that they will support their teams, but the Jocks and Brainiacs feel guilty and devise a new plan to help them make it to callbacks (We’re All in This Together).

The following day, all three events unfold at the same time (Bop to the Top): Sharpay and Ryan perform their callback while Troy plays in the championship game and Gabriella competes in the Science Decathlon, led by the MODERATOR. Taylor hacks into the school’s electrical system and shuts down the lights in the gym and lab to give Troy and Gabriella a chance to run to their callback But when they arrive at the auditorium, they’re too late

However, when the East High students arrive to rally behind them, Ms. Darbus relents. Sharpay protests, but Ryan reveals her lie to Ms Darbus Troy and Gabriella perform their callback (Breaking Free) and get the parts Troy and Gabriella return to their other competitions, and both teams win! The barriers between the cliques have fallen, and all of the students come together to celebrate (We’re All in This Together – Reprise, High School Musical Megamix – Bows).

PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS

Troy Bolton

James Blennerhassett (Year 10)

James is excited to step back into the spotlight as Troy Bolton, bringing both confidence and a genuine love of musical theatre to the role. Having previously performed in Finding Nemo Jr , James enjoys the energy and connection that comes with being part of a cast. He especially loves the final number, where the whole ensemble comes together in a fun and memorable way Much like Troy, James values teamwork and friendship, and hopes audiences enjoy the journey of stepping outside expectations and discovering new passions.

Sharpay Evans

Lucy Elliott (Year 9)

Lucy lights up the stage as Sharpay Evans, bringing confidence, charisma, and a love of performance to the role. As her first time on stage, Lucy has embraced every moment, especially the costumes and the chance to portray such a bold and dramatic character. She particularly enjoys performing “Bop to the Top,” alongside Ryan, where the duo’s chemistry shines Lucy admires Sharpay’s unapologetic confidence and larger-than-life personality. She reminds audiences that every performer on stage has worked incredibly hard and deserves applause.

Gabriella Montez Hollie Laffin (Year 11)

Hollie makes her musical debut as Gabriella Montez, embracing the opportunity to step onto the stage in her senior years at ASSG. Having previously performed in dance concerts and country music festivals, she brings warmth, and authenticity to the role Hollie was inspired to audition as one of her final chances to be part of a school production and has loved the experience of working alongside the cast. Like Gabriella, she values courage and growth, and hopes the performance inspires others to step outside their comfort zones and chase what they love.

Ryan Evans

William Knight (Year 8)

William makes his stage debut as Ryan Evans, embracing the chance to perform in a role full of energy, style, and flair. Although unexpectedly encouraged to audition, he has fully embraced the experience and especially enjoys performing “Bop to the Top,” where the fun and rhythm of the show truly shine. William admires Ryan’s intelligence and stage presence and brings a confident, playful energy to the role He hopes audiences enjoy the performance and remembers, Ryan Evans definitely carried the show!

Ms Darbus

Julia Gossage (Year 12)

Julia takes on the iconic role of Ms Darbus in her final year, embracing the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and try something new She believes in making the most of every opportunity and hopes to inspire others to do the same. Julia particularly enjoys the chaos and humour of “Stick to the Status Quo,” a standout moment in the show She also appreciates the comedic presence of Coach Bolton on stage. Julia hopes audiences enjoy the performance and remember the importance of taking risks.

Kelsi Nielsen Lucinda Reardon (Year 8)

Coach Bolton Slade Delacour (Year 11)

Lucinda brings creativity and enthusiasm to the role of Kelsi Nielsen, combining her love of performing with her experience in dance and school productions She enjoys the humour and energy of the show’s opening, where different groups are hilariously divided. Lucinda’s favourite number, “Auditions,” captures her love of collaboration and fun on stage. Like Kelsi, she enjoys being part of something creative with friends Lucinda hopes audiences feel the same joy watching the performance as the cast has had bringing it to life.

Slade steps into the role of Coach Bolton with a strong sense of humour and a willingness to give something new a go Performing on stage for the first time, he particularly enjoys the rivalry between Coach Bolton and Ms Darbus, bringing comedic tension to the show. His favourite number, “Get’cha Head in the Game,” reflects the energy and focus of his character Slade embraces the straightforward nature of Coach Bolton and is enjoying the experience of bringing this iconic character to life.

Taylor McKessie

Vivienne Knight (Year 10)

Vivienne steps into the role of Taylor McKessie with confidence, intelligence, and a willingness to try something new Encouraged to audition for fun, she has embraced the experience of performing and supporting her peers. She enjoys the vibrant energy of “Stick to the Status Quo,” where characters begin to challenge expectations. Vivienne admires Taylor’s intelligence and strong sense of self, qualities she connects with personally She hopes audiences enjoy the show and appreciate the creativity and effort behind every performance.

Chad Danforth Shaun Gibson (Year 11)

Shaun makes his stage debut as Chad Danforth, embracing the opportunity to step outside his comfort zone and take on something completely new. Drawn to Chad’s energy and leadership, Shaun thrives in the high-energy dance numbers especially leading the cast in We’re All in This Together. He connects strongly with Chad’s hype-man personality and team-first attitude. Shaun hopes his performance inspires others to take risks, try something different, and say yes to opportunities that might only come around once.

Cheer Captain Grace Gostelow (Year 11)

Grace brings enthusiasm and strong dance experience to her role as Cheer Captain, making the most of her final opportunity to perform in a school musical With a background in dance, she thrives in the show’s energetic choreography and enjoys every moment on stage. Her favourite song, What I’ve Been Looking For, highlights the fun and playful tone of the production Grace appreciates Chad’s humour and stage presence, and hopes audiences have just as much fun watching the show as the cast did creating it.

Zeke Baylor Kalean Atkinson (Year 12)

Kaelan takes on the role of Zeke Baylor, embracing the chance to try something completely new before finishing his senior year of school. Performing on stage for the first time, Kaelan is excited to be part of something different and memorable One of his favourite moments in the show is the hilarious cakespilling scene, which always brings plenty of energy and laughter to rehearsals. Kaelan also enjoys the rhythm and fun of Bop to the Top He admires Ryan Evans for his personality and stage presence, and hopes the audiences will sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Jac Scott

Hayley Fox (Year 12)

Hayley returns to the stage as Jac Scott, bringing experience, humour, and a love of theatre to her final school production Having performed in previous musicals, she didn’t want to miss her last opportunity to be part of the school show. She enjoys the lively chaos of Stick to the Status Quo, where the cast comes together in a fun and unpredictable way. Hayley admires Sharpay’s bold personality and dramatic flair, and promises audiences a legendary performance - because someone has to keep the show sounding great!

CHEERLEADERS

THESPIANS SKATERS

Troy Bolton ..................... James Blennerhassett

Gabriella Montez ...........

Hollie Laffin

Sharpay Evans ............... Lucy Elliott

Ryan Evans .................... William Knight

Coach Bolton ................. Slade Delacour

Ms Darbus .....................

Julia Gossage

Kelsi Nielsen .................. Lucinda Reardon

Jac Scott ........................ Hayley Fox

CHEERLEADERS

Cheer Captain ................ Grace Gostelow

Cathy (Auditions) ............. Lanah Emerson

Susan (Auditions) ............. Georgia Johnson

Ava Crane

Summer Eastaughffe

Pattison Fink

Mackenzie Jonsson

Cynthia Sesi

CAST LIST

JOCKS

Chad Danforth ................. Shaun Gibson

Zeke Baylor ..................... Kaelan Atkinson

Lindsay Galvin

Damien Pedersen

Joshua Phillip

George Sweeney

BRAINIACS

Taylor McKessie .............. Vivienne Knight

Martha Cox .................... Olivia Geoghegan

Kratnoff .......................... Amelia Cowan

Ms Tenny & Moderator .... Bohdi Herring

Cyndra (Auditions) .......... Harper Crane

Ada Luke

Lexi Sheahan

THESPIANS

James (Auditions) ........... Matthew Gostelow

Elsie Bennetto

Georgina Chappell

Genevieve Kehoe

SKATERS

Darragh Bowley

Dakota Halstead

Amelia Hammer

Levi Jackson

Ivy Neilsen

April Rollinson

Phoebe Storey

Declan Sweeney

Chayce Tupaea

PRODUCTION TEAM

Ian Dietrich

Artistic Director; Casting; Set Design & Realisation; Rehearsal Co-ordinator; Choreography Assistant; Lighting Design; Program Design; Promotions; Stage Manager

Robyn Dietrich

Vocal Coach; Set Design & Realisation; Costume Design & Realisation; Props Design & Realisation; Hair and Make-up Design

Stephen Price

Casting; Vocal Coaching Co-ordinator; Sound Design, Realisation & Operation; Lighting Design & Realisation

Casting

Veronica Brady

Rehearsal Assistant

Jennelle Craig, Ange Laffin & Ange Snelling

Vocal Coach

Alanna Price & Tammy Wilson

Rehearsal Catering

Deb Kelly & ASSG Kitchen Staff

Set Realisation

Choreography

Charlotte Breush, Grace Gostelow & Rebecca Mackenzie

Parent Communication

Rikki Bowden & Ange Snelling

Elsie Bennetto, Louis Bennetto, Sonia Bennetto, Jack Crilly, Zoe Godfrey, Catherine Harper, Elise Harper, Alistair Hutcheson, Dave Keen, Emma McKay, Clayne Musk, Archer Reardon, Joe Wivou & ASSG Grounds and Maintenance Staff

Costume Realisation

Zoe Godfrey, ASSG Parents & Cast Members

Hair Realisation

ASSG Parents, Student Volunteers & Cast Members

Sound Operation

Janita Reardon

Promotion

Sonia Bennetto & Breanne Peace

Props Realisation

Nyssa Bowley, Daisy Juhas & Sylvia Juhas

Backstage Crew

Bruno Bennetto, Louis Bennetto, Nyssa Bowley, Jack Crilly, Willow Fleming, Calix Palmer, Archer Reardon, Mason Storey