(LEFT to RIGHT) Christian Shebchuk, Gwen Jester, Max Sklar, Charlotte Reinoso, Sophia DiLanno, Jordan Wolf. Photo by Dave Dabour

(GLEN GARDNER, NJ) -- ShowKids Invitational Theatre (SKIT) brings the high-energy Disney favorite High School Musical to the stage this winter, featuring a double cast of talented young performers at Voorhees High School in Lebanon Township. The production runs for two weekends, January 17–25, 2026, and celebrates friendship, teamwork, and the courage to break out of the expected.

"We could all use a little happiness—and you can't get much happier than High School Musical," said Director Carol Newman. "The singing and dancing are superb, and the energy is contagious. The show is topped off by an unprecedented 12-minute, full-cast singing and dancing number. You will truly be amazed! You must come and see this tremendous show."

Based on the Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical follows East High students Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez as they navigate social expectations, new friendships, and their shared love of music. Featuring audience-favorite songs such as "We're All in This Together" and "Get'cha Head in the Game," the show delivers fast-paced choreography, humor, and heartfelt moments for audiences of all ages.

The production features double-cast leads Alex Apgar and Max Sklar as Troy Bolton, and Callista Tronoski and Charlotte Reinoso as Gabriella Montez, with Maddie Nasto and Sophia DiLanno portraying Sharpay Evans and Jordan Wolf appearing as Ryan Evans. The cast also includes Christian Shebchuk and Tyler Beruta as Chad Danforth, Lilah Seamans and Gwen Jester as Taylor McKessie, Dylan Devine and Logan Switzer as Zeke Baylor, Piper Van Kampen and Claire Wranitz as Martha Cox, Bella De La Torre and Elizabeth Miller as Kelsi Nielsen, and Ryleigh DeWees and Amalia Marquardt as Jackie Scott.

Additional roles are performed by Kairi Hernandez as Ripper, Kristeen DeChristofaro as drama teacher Ms. Darbus, and Tom Newman as Coach Bolton, along with Ava Donnelly (Jamie), Isla Fox (Susan), Abigail Carpenter (Cathy/Mongo), Khloe K (Alana/Kratnoff), Noelia Villagra (Cyndra), and Diane Lehnert (Ms. Tenny). The Performance Art Kids are portrayed by Phoebe Morgan, Corrina Reaves, and Aubrey Vida, with Ava Donnelly, Ava Seamans, and Kelly Torley appearing in the ensemble.

Performances take place Saturday, January 17 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, January 18 at 2:00pm; Saturday, January 24 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; and Sunday, January 25 at 2:00pm. Performances will be held at Voorhees High School Auditorium in Lebanon Township, New Jersey. Tickets may be purchased at www.showkids.org or by calling 908-638-5959.

(LEFT to RIGHT) Christian Shebchuk, Lilah Seamans, Alex Apgar, Callista Tronoski, Maddie Nasto, Jordon Wolf. Photo by Dave Dabour

Founded in 1986, ShowKids Invitational Theatre is a non-profit repertory community theater group dedicated to providing young performers ages 5–15 with professional-caliber theatrical experiences. The organization focuses on casting youth in principal roles while maintaining high production standards through experienced artistic and technical teams. Over nearly four decades, SKIT has become known for producing high-quality, family-oriented musicals while fostering confidence, creativity, and collaboration.

The production is made possible in part by funds from the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission, a New Jersey State Council of the Arts partner.