For Zoe Carroll, singing on stage as Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls is the happy result of advocating a “pet project” most of her high school years.
A story known for its take on toxic relationships and high school hijinks and emotions in general, Mean Girls the High School Musical Version makes its grand appearance at Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS) in March.
“It’s really appealing because a lot of musicals have a really male-forward cast and in my grade at least we have a lot of talented guys, but many more girls,” Carroll said.
While the Grade 12 student characterizes it as pleading, director Adrienne Smook says she was “introduced” to the show by the students who suggested it.
“I did some reading about it and I was definitely taken with the humour and the opportunity to talk about some challenging topics but through humour and great storytelling,” Smook told the Victoria News. “Tina Fey’s work is so engaging and funny. It’s also an opportunity for students to play characters their own age.
“In high school, students really start to become aware of who they are in the world and this musical is about being yourself and allowing yourself to be your true authentic self,” added Smook, who is also the school’s artistic director.
Based on the iconic 2004 film written by famed Saturday Night Live alum Fey, Mean Girls the High School Musical follows teen Cady Heron, as she treads the murky waters of high school social life. Gretchen Wieners is the loyal sidekick to lead mean girl Regina George.
“It’s an absolute honour. It’s exciting and fun to play a character that’s super different to me … I feel like in a different life I am Gretchen. I’ve been lucky enough to be making better decisions,” Carroll said.
While portraying an unintentional comedic character with a straight face, there are also the emotional moments, breaks from the comedy such as Carroll’s solo about insecurity and friendship.
“It’s also really cathartic to be a high schooler and sing on stage about insecurity and toxic friendships … and just take ownership of that. I think that’s something a lot of high schoolers including myself have struggled with,” the teen actor said.
The GNS production features students from Grades 9 to 12 and includes 24 songs – one of the biggest musicals to ever hit the Denford Hall stage.
“I’m blown away by what these students do in a relatively short time in amongst all their studies and work and applying for universities. They come to rehearsal every day full of joy and excited to be with each other and perform with each other,” Smook said. “Our lead actors, mostly Grade 12s, shine in their roles – in some cases stretching to find characters that are quite outside themselves. The story and themes are being approached with humour, grit and care.”
The GNS production of Mean Girls the High School Musical runs March 5 to 8 in Denford Hall, Glenlyon Norfolk School, 781 Richmond St.
Tickets are available at the door or online at ticketstripe.com/events/2742106769504142.
