This weekend, audiences at Murfreesboro’s Center for the Arts will be treated to a delightful production of “Freaky Friday,” a musical inspired by the beloved films from 1974 and 2003, as well as the Disney musical adaptation from 2018. Directed by Heather Steele, the show stars Allison Hall as Katherine Blake and AnnaClaire Ashley as Ellie Blake, a mother-daughter duo who experience a hilarious and heartwarming body swap.
Steele emphasizes the core theme of the musical, which revolves around empathy and understanding one another. “It’s funny. The music is really catchy and fun,” Steele remarked. “It has a really big heart, and I think it’s one of those stories that sticks with you.”
In an intriguing twist, Hall portrays Ellie for the majority of the show after the characters switch bodies, embodying a teenager for approximately 75% of the performance. Hall, who identifies with the lively spirit of Ellie, reflects on her own youthful experiences, saying, “I remember what it was like to be an anxious teenager with lots of emotions.”
The chemistry between Hall and Ashley is palpable, as they took the stage together after months of anticipation leading up to the auditions. Ashley shared her enthusiasm about working closely with Hall, adding, “It’s fun to play off of her because I know her so well.”
Steele praised both performers for their talent, stating, “They are just magic together on stage. I love watching them perform together. They are wonderful singers, and they were both very excited for this show.”
Additionally, the production coincides with “Freakier Friday,” a sequel to the 2023 movie, which inspired the inclusion of the musical in this season’s schedule.
For those interested in experiencing this engaging performance, “Freaky Friday” runs from July 11-13, July 18-20, and July 25-27, with showtimes at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are available for $25 through the Center for the Arts website.
This heartwarming musical not only promises entertainment but also encourages viewers to think about the importance of empathy in everyday life, making it a meaningful addition to the community’s cultural offerings.