Freaky Friday Reviews
Washington Post- Recommended
"...Signature Theatre is very much at the forefront of developing new musicals and this time around it is doing so in collaboration with Disney Theatricals. Based on Mary Rodgers' novel and the two movies of the same name, the world premiere stage adaptation of Disney's Freaky Friday features some of Broadway and television's best creative talent, two extremely strong leads, and an infectiously energetic ensemble cast. The musical's appeal isn't only limited to the target teenage/millennial crowd. Any fan of contemporary musical theatre is likely to find something to appreciate in this adorable (but not cloyingly so) show."
DC Theater Arts- Recommended
"...So feel free to make yourself happy at Freaky Friday for a couple of hours without apology. Freaky Friday may have a rose-colored glasses, dewy-eyed outlook along with a steady flow of wholesomeness and a happy ending, but given these current turbulent times in America, it's good for us to have it here at Signature right now. I enjoyed the escape from the outside world into a place with "No More Fear.""
Talkin Broadway- Recommended
"...The walk-a-mile-in-someone-else's-shoes story is an old one, but Freaky Friday gives it a high gloss, thanks to a director and choreographer with notable Broadway credits and a scenic design (by Beowulf Boritt) that dances almost as much as the performers. Emily Rebholz's costumes add to the characterizations, from a slacker's slouchy hat to a mean girl's exquisitely detailed suit. Conductor Bryan Perri and his eight musicians provide solid support throughout."
MD Theatre Guide- Highly Recommended
"...Based on Mary Roger's classic novel, "Freaky Friday" tells the relatable story of a mother-daughter pair who have a hard time understanding one another. That is until a freaky encounter leads to them switching bodies and in turn perspectives. With Katherine's wedding coming up, the pair races to find a solution but not before stumbling through a day in the other's life. Will they be able to pull the switch off in time for the big day? Make your way over to the Signature Theatre to find out, this musical will not disappoint."
Theatre Bloom- Recommended
"...Directorial and choreographic issues aside, the casting is solid with incredible talent radiating through both lead females as well as supporting performers. There is a strong-voiced ensemble that fills each quintessential Disney number with gusto and emotional tenacity. Group songs like "Oh, Biology" and both the opening song and closing song "Just One Day" and "Today and Ev'ry Day" echo throughout the piece with their catchy tunes carried with solidarity on the fortified sound of this empowered ensemble. Brian Yorkey's exceptionally smart and well-penned lyrics find good purchase among this cast; their ability to articulate and let the humorous wording, the nimble phrasing, and sharply witty lines resonate with clarity is quite impressive."
DCTheatreScene- Highly Recommended
"...Signature has really done a bang-up job of taking Freaky Friday to the stage, and the creators—Bridget Carpenter (Book), Tom Kitt (Music), and Brian Yorkey (Lyrics)—have contemporized the tale with real world authenticity and infused it with the belief that we can all be better individuals with a little acceptance (of self and others). It’s a lesson that never gets old, which is why Freaky Friday endures. And, thank the stars, sans water skiing."