Music by Tom Kitt
Lyrics by Brian Yorkey
Book by Bridget Carpenter
Based on the novel Freaky Friday by Mary Rodgers and the Disney films
When a super-organized mother and her spontaneous teenage daughter magically swap bodies, they have just one day to figure out how to break the spell and switch back. By spending a day in each other’s shoes, Katherine and Ellie come to appreciate one another in a way they never could have imagined. Based on the beloved 1972 novel by Mary Rodgers and the hit Disney Channel Original movie, this heartfelt and hilarious new musical explores the true power of love and the strength of the bond between a mother and daughter.
Age Recommended: Most enjoyed by children 8 and up.
Language:
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Ellie uses aggressive language towards her family members (“Shut it!,” ”You stink, Fletcher,” “I hate you,”“Stupid!”).
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An insinuation to a curse word is made by Ellie in Katherine’s body, but no curse words are used (“Will hunt for the glass and save my…butt.”)
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The phrase, “Oh my gosh,” is used.
Themes and Situations:
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Family conflict and difficulty adjusting to a step-parent
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There are mentions of Ellie’s father’s death throughout (the show happens years after death has occurred).
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Financial challenges are suggested
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There is intense bullying by Savannah, including calling Ellie a “loser,” smacking books out of Ellie’s hand, and elbowing Ellie in the stomach.
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There is a discussion of growing up and the development of hormones.
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Cigarettes and piercings are displayed in a negative light.
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There is a song entitled, “Parents Lie,” revealing common things parents misconceive to their younger children.
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A lack of body confidence is represented, but themes of loving your body are presented as a response to this.
Potential Scary Moments:
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Strobes and other lighting effects will be used to represent magic throughout the show.
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A magical hourglass is what causes Ellie and Katherine to swap bodies.
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There is potential for loud noises from screaming and props breaking.
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Savannah gets mildly violent when elbowing Ellie in the stomach, knocking items out of her hand, etc.
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A child goes missing. This conflict is resolved quickly and he is reunited with his family.
Other Cautions/Advisories:
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There are public displays of affection through kissing and hugging between love interests.
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During a magic trick, Fletcher pulls a scarf from his mouth, and he mocks “choking” during this trick.
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Being locked in a psych ward and medicated is mentioned after Ellie and Katherine “switch bodies.”
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Sarcastic remarks are made by Torreyregarding killing a child if they were to ever run away.
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A misunderstanding causes an insinuation that the physical harm of Katherine’s son has occurred.