High School Musical on the Axelrod Stage in Deal

Disney Channel's smash hit "High School Musical" opens this weekend and is directed and choreographed by none other than Lane Napper, who is well-known for his Disney and Nickelodeon roles!

Lane Napper has appeared in hit tween shows including "iCarly", "Suddenly Susan," and "Victorious." He has also worked as a coach on shows like "Drake and Josh" and "Zoey 101."

Now Lane is working with the Axelrod Rising Stars program which includes some of the best musical theater students in our area. The teens are thrilled to have Lane directing and choreographing this production since this TV star can relate so well to young performers!

Lane says he is also super excited to be working at the Jersey Shore and with the talented performers who will be performing on the stage this summer.

In case you aren't familiar with High School Musical, it's the story of Troy Bolton, a basketball star for the East High Wildcats (played by Joseph Bach), and Gabriella Montez (played by Elizabeth Ritacco of Toms River), a new student who catches his eye. The two eventually discover a secret passion for musical theater and audition for the spring musical. Chaos ensues when the school's top drama star, Sharpay Evans (played by Evan Schultz of Colts Neck), feels threatened by the couple's talents. Follow the East High Wildcats on this fun, crazy journey as they try to "Stick to the Status Quo," while at the same time strive to see the "Start of Something New."

The shows run this Sunday, July 29th at 3 pm, Aug. 1st and 2nd at 8 pm, and Aug. 5th at 3 pm. Tickets are $28 for adults, $26 for Seniors, and $20 for students. They can be purchased by CLICKING HERE.

The Axelrod Performing Arts Center is located at 100 Grant Ave. in Deal. It is beautiful, fully accessible and offers free, on-site parking.