OCALA, FL – The College of Central Florida is trading in cafeteria chatter for Broadway-style drama with its upcoming production of Mean Girls, hitting the stage April 9-12 at the Dassance Fine Arts Center. The Tony Award-nominated musical, adapted from Tina Fey’s 2004 film, takes a fierce, funny look at the high school popularity pecking order, now reimagined through the talents of CF students.
“This is an advanced show, and it’s thrilling for our students to tackle it,” said RJ Magee, CF associate professor of theatre and director of the musical. “There’s tons of singing, dancing and fast scene changes. It’s a professional-level effort, and the collaboration across our visual and performing arts department makes it a truly interdisciplinary project.”
The cast of 24 students is led by Kate Hough as Regina George, Estella Cavalier as Cady Heron, Emma Komenda as Gretchen, Sydney Nye as Karen and Geovanni Jimenez as Damien. Backstage and technical support comes from CF students and faculty handling choreography, music, costumes and stage design, ensuring a full-scale theatrical experience.
For many cast members, stepping into iconic roles meant balancing homage with originality.
“You want to respect the icons who came before you while making the character your own,” said Cavalier, who plays Cady.
Fellow cast members agreed that both the Broadway musical and the original film heavily influenced their performances, helping them explore the humanity and insecurities beneath each character’s surface.
Beyond the humor and catchy songs, the cast hopes audiences leave with more than just laughs.
“It’s not just about the Plastics being mean,” said Komenda, who plays Gretchen. “It’s about recognizing the impact of words and actions – and maybe seeing that kindness is always the better choice.”
Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, April 9-11, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 12. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for non-CF students and free for CF students, faculty and staff with ID. They can be purchased online or by calling 352-873-5810. For more information on CF Visual and Performing Arts events, visit CF.edu/Arts.
From the perfectly timed burn lines to the elaborate costumes and lighting, the CF production promises to turn the suburban high school saga into an unmissable live spectacle.
“Don’t be fooled by the pink,” warned Cavalier with a smile. “Even in high heels, the drama is real.”
