In a case of art imitating life or life imitating art, Freeport Area High School will present Disney’s “High School Musical,” running Thursday through Sunday at the district’s middle school.

The story centers on two East High students, Troy and Gabriella, and their audition for a school musical in which they buck the status quo.

“The musical has been on the radar of students for a long time,” said Tom Koharchik, producer of the high school’s musical and choir director for grades 6 through 12.

The musical has been around for about 15 years, adapted for the stage from the 2006 Disney movie of the same name.

“A lot of folks will be familiar with the movie and find songs they have liked for a long time,” Koharchik said. “People will see an energetic presentation and have a lot of fun.”

The show features about 63 cast members and 20 to 25 students in the stage crew and pit band.

Residents attending the play are in for an immersive experience, akin to visiting East High, Koharchik said.

Katelyn Hemphill, 15, who plays Gabriella, said she enjoys her character, whom she describes as kind and open-minded.

“Throughout the course of the show, Gabriella breaks out of her shell,” said Hemphill, of Freeport, who is a sophomore. “I liked playing her because there was a lot of growth in her character.”

Hemphill’s favorite part of the production was the cast.

“There is an energy there. We are great friends and supportive of each other.”

Nate Covey, 16, a junior from Buffalo Township, said he relates to his character, a basketball player. Similar to Troy, Covey is a school athlete who plays lacrosse and golf.

“Singing was challenging and interesting,” Covey said. He was surprised by the amount of practice and repetition required for singing.

“It’s been a really good experience,” he said. “As good as it is an experience for me, I hope it’s as good for the audience.”

Tickets may be purchased online. Whatever tickets remain will be available the day of the show.

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