BHS Presents Disney’s “High School Musical”

The musical is set for this Friday and Saturday.

(Batesville, Ind.) - To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the popular made-for-TV movie, the Batesville High School (BHS) Drama Club and Music Department will present Disney’s High School Musical on Friday, April 24, and Saturday, April 25, in the BHS auditorium at 7 p.m.

A cast of 40 students will bring to life the romantic comedy that follows two students from very different high school friend groups who dare to try something outside their comfort zones. In addition to those on stage, just over a dozen other students are assisting with the sets, lights, and sound.

Jaden Basler and Alysun Simon portray the lead characters of Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez, respectively. Their sidekicks are played by Lexi Harris (Taylor McKessie), Emily Merkel (Kelsi), Levi Essick (Chad), Vince Wilson (Zeke), and Charlotte Trossman (Martha Cox). Grace Saner portrays Ms. Darbus, the drama teacher, Eli Doll is Coach Bolton, and Kalem Grooms plays skater Ripper. Spotlight-loving twins Sharpay and Ryan Evans are played by Becca Knight and Ethan Rahschulte. School announcer Jack Scott, a character new to the stage play version, is played by Henry Garrett. Twenty-seven other students round out the cast by portraying athletes, cheerleaders, skaters, thespians, or brainiacs.

Popular songs from the show are “Stick to the Status Quo,” “Get’cha Head in the Game,” “We’re All in This Together,” and “Bop to the Top.” The Disney movie was adapted for the stage by David Simpatico and is performed in cooperation with and licensed by Music Theatre International in New York.

“With catchy songs and a fun family-friendly storyline, this is a production for all ages to enjoy,” Lisa Barnett, the show’s director, said. “We encourage everyone to buy their tickets ahead of time, due to the popularity of this particular show.”

Besides Barnett, Alison Vitolo (tech) and Carleigh Siebert (set) serve as assistant directors. Dan Borns serves as the show’s vocal director, while Cameron Everage manages the soundtrack. In addition to being cast in the play, BHS senior Charlotte Trossman serves as one of the show’s choreographers. BHS graduate Abby Hartz also choreographed some of the numbers through support from the Batesville Area Arts Council’s Artist-in-Residence programming.

Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults and can be purchased online with a credit card at https://cur8.com/24915/project/138911 until showtime. Cash only will be accepted at the door on the night of each show.