Character Breakdown
Gabriella Montez
Gabriella Montez is the new student who’s struggling to find her place at East High. She’s a Renaissance woman who doesn’t fully identify with any of the cliques, and so she’s taking her time – and realizing her confidence – along the way. Smart and independent, Gabriella can be shy and vulnerable at times. She comes into her own when she discovers her talent and love for singing with Troy, so look for a strong actor with a fantastic voice.
Troy Bolton
Troy Bolton, the most popular student at East High, is the star of the basketball team who yearns to be more than what others – especially his dad, Coach Bolton – want him to be. A natural athlete and leader with charm to spare, Troy discovers he loves to sing, but is afraid to admit it to his basketball buddies. Look for a solid actor who can convey the full range of Troy’s emotions from sensitive to self-assured, and who can dance and sing very well. Consider auditioning your potential Troys and Gabriellas together to get a sense of the pair’s dynamic.
Sharpay Evans
Sharpay Evans is the dramatic and self- centered star of the school musicals. Between her and Ryan, she’s the alpha twin – over-the-top, demanding, and always “on,” with a flair for the theatrical. This diva knows how to work a crowd, so cast a performer with solid acting chops and strong singing and dancing skills.
Ryan Evans
Ryan Evans is Sharpay’s fraternal twin and, like her, he lives to sing, dance, and get loads of attention. Subordinate to his sister, Ryan generally follows Sharpay’s orders and lets her have the spotlight, but he longs to break free from her shadow and assert himself. Choose a “triple threat” for this actor – strong singer, dancer, and actor – because everything Ryan does is calculated and executed impeccably. Consider auditioning Ryan and Sharpay in pairs as the success of “Bop to the Top” depends on this dynamic duo performing perfectly – and with a ton of energy.
Kelsi Nielsen
Kelsi Nielsen, the neo-feminist writer- composer of the winter musical, Juliet and Romeo, possesses a shy demeanor but no tolerance for the egocentric likes of Sharpay. A strong actor who can play the compassionate underdog with intelligence and an uncanny ability to shoot zingers at Sharpay with timing and accuracy.
Chad Danforth
Chad Danforth, one of Troy’s best friends, is a sports fanatic. Focused on winning the basketball championship, Chad slowly begins to understand that there might be more to life than ball – including his crush on Taylor. Look for an actor that partners naturally with Troy, is a leader of his own accord, and can handle a couple of short solos and acting scenes.
Zeke Baylor
Zeke Baylor, Troy’s other best buddy, is a basketball player with a sweet side. He has two secrets: a crush on Sharpay and a love for baking! Look for an actor with some singing chops who can portray this Wildcat with no shame in his (basketball or baking) game. Zeke has some higher parts to sing, so if necessary, the actor you cast can speak-sing parts that may be out of his natural range.
Taylor Mckessie
Taylor McKessie, the very put-together president of the Science Club, is super-assertive and very intent on Gabriella joining the Science Decathlon team so they can (finally!) win the competition. Taylor has a hidden soft spot for Chad, but would never let it be known that she’s into a jock, so cast a performer who can portray confidence – and just a slight air of pretentiousness.
Ms. Darbus
Ms. Darbus is East High’s eccentric drama teacher. Passionate and disciplined, she never stops trying to enrich the lives of her students through the wonders of live theater. Look for a performer who knows how to milk every line and gesture for this role, as the key to Darbus is in her killer comic timing. Be careful of making her too wacky, though; this educator genuinely loves her art and her students, so make sure her heart shines through.
Coach Bolton
Coach Bolton, the stern basketball coach and Troy’s sometimes overbearing dad, lost the big game years ago and wants a second chance through his basketball-star son. Cast an actor who can handle the demands of this mature role – and who can convincingly and comically spar with Ms. Darbus.
Martha Cox
Martha Cox, a proud member of the Science Club, possesses a private passion for break dancing. Look for a truly terrific dancer who can sing.
Ensemble
The ensemble is your show’s primary group of performers from which you will pull the featured roles and other, perhaps smaller, ensembles. Be sure to select strong singers – as few or as many as your production requires – as all ensembles require group singing. The featured roles call for either solo singing or solo acting, or both.
The BRAINIACS, headed by Taylor McKessie, are the smartest girls and boys in school, including Martha Cox and the change-adverse KRATNOFF.
The JOCKS and CHEERLEADERS are the East High athletes, including Troy, Chad, and Zeke. Both of these groups can be a mix of boys and girls.
The THESPIANS are the drama lovers, including Kelsi, Sharpay, and Ryan, as well as the following auditionees: CATHY, who belts like Ethel Merman, CYNDRA, the opera-lover, JAMES, who can’t sing on pitch and SUSAN, the wannabe pop star.
The PARTY KIDS are students in Troy and Gabriella’s karaoke flashback.
The REBELS, including Troy and Gabriella, don’t stick to the status quo, unlike the various school cliques.
Other featured performers include:
JACK SCOTT, the school announcer with a larger-than-life personality, longs to be a D.J. Look for an actor who will have no problem making this role his own, creating a quirky radio personality with a unique sense of style. While this actor will primarily stay as Jack throughout, there are opportunities to join ensemble numbers such as “Stick to the Status Quo” and “Get’cha Head in the Game.”
DRUM MAJOR, who cheers on the Wildcats.
MS. TENNY, East High’s chemistry teacher.
MODERATOR, for the Science Decathlon (can be double cast as Ms. Tenny)
Gabriella Montez is the new student who’s struggling to find her place at East High. She’s a Renaissance woman who doesn’t fully identify with any of the cliques, and so she’s taking her time – and realizing her confidence – along the way. Smart and independent, Gabriella can be shy and vulnerable at times. She comes into her own when she discovers her talent and love for singing with Troy, so look for a strong actor with a fantastic voice.
Troy Bolton
Troy Bolton, the most popular student at East High, is the star of the basketball team who yearns to be more than what others – especially his dad, Coach Bolton – want him to be. A natural athlete and leader with charm to spare, Troy discovers he loves to sing, but is afraid to admit it to his basketball buddies. Look for a solid actor who can convey the full range of Troy’s emotions from sensitive to self-assured, and who can dance and sing very well. Consider auditioning your potential Troys and Gabriellas together to get a sense of the pair’s dynamic.
Sharpay Evans
Sharpay Evans is the dramatic and self- centered star of the school musicals. Between her and Ryan, she’s the alpha twin – over-the-top, demanding, and always “on,” with a flair for the theatrical. This diva knows how to work a crowd, so cast a performer with solid acting chops and strong singing and dancing skills.
Ryan Evans
Ryan Evans is Sharpay’s fraternal twin and, like her, he lives to sing, dance, and get loads of attention. Subordinate to his sister, Ryan generally follows Sharpay’s orders and lets her have the spotlight, but he longs to break free from her shadow and assert himself. Choose a “triple threat” for this actor – strong singer, dancer, and actor – because everything Ryan does is calculated and executed impeccably. Consider auditioning Ryan and Sharpay in pairs as the success of “Bop to the Top” depends on this dynamic duo performing perfectly – and with a ton of energy.
Kelsi Nielsen
Kelsi Nielsen, the neo-feminist writer- composer of the winter musical, Juliet and Romeo, possesses a shy demeanor but no tolerance for the egocentric likes of Sharpay. A strong actor who can play the compassionate underdog with intelligence and an uncanny ability to shoot zingers at Sharpay with timing and accuracy.
Chad Danforth
Chad Danforth, one of Troy’s best friends, is a sports fanatic. Focused on winning the basketball championship, Chad slowly begins to understand that there might be more to life than ball – including his crush on Taylor. Look for an actor that partners naturally with Troy, is a leader of his own accord, and can handle a couple of short solos and acting scenes.
Zeke Baylor
Zeke Baylor, Troy’s other best buddy, is a basketball player with a sweet side. He has two secrets: a crush on Sharpay and a love for baking! Look for an actor with some singing chops who can portray this Wildcat with no shame in his (basketball or baking) game. Zeke has some higher parts to sing, so if necessary, the actor you cast can speak-sing parts that may be out of his natural range.
Taylor Mckessie
Taylor McKessie, the very put-together president of the Science Club, is super-assertive and very intent on Gabriella joining the Science Decathlon team so they can (finally!) win the competition. Taylor has a hidden soft spot for Chad, but would never let it be known that she’s into a jock, so cast a performer who can portray confidence – and just a slight air of pretentiousness.
Ms. Darbus
Ms. Darbus is East High’s eccentric drama teacher. Passionate and disciplined, she never stops trying to enrich the lives of her students through the wonders of live theater. Look for a performer who knows how to milk every line and gesture for this role, as the key to Darbus is in her killer comic timing. Be careful of making her too wacky, though; this educator genuinely loves her art and her students, so make sure her heart shines through.
Coach Bolton
Coach Bolton, the stern basketball coach and Troy’s sometimes overbearing dad, lost the big game years ago and wants a second chance through his basketball-star son. Cast an actor who can handle the demands of this mature role – and who can convincingly and comically spar with Ms. Darbus.
Martha Cox
Martha Cox, a proud member of the Science Club, possesses a private passion for break dancing. Look for a truly terrific dancer who can sing.
Ensemble
The ensemble is your show’s primary group of performers from which you will pull the featured roles and other, perhaps smaller, ensembles. Be sure to select strong singers – as few or as many as your production requires – as all ensembles require group singing. The featured roles call for either solo singing or solo acting, or both.
The BRAINIACS, headed by Taylor McKessie, are the smartest girls and boys in school, including Martha Cox and the change-adverse KRATNOFF.
The JOCKS and CHEERLEADERS are the East High athletes, including Troy, Chad, and Zeke. Both of these groups can be a mix of boys and girls.
The THESPIANS are the drama lovers, including Kelsi, Sharpay, and Ryan, as well as the following auditionees: CATHY, who belts like Ethel Merman, CYNDRA, the opera-lover, JAMES, who can’t sing on pitch and SUSAN, the wannabe pop star.
The PARTY KIDS are students in Troy and Gabriella’s karaoke flashback.
The REBELS, including Troy and Gabriella, don’t stick to the status quo, unlike the various school cliques.
Other featured performers include:
JACK SCOTT, the school announcer with a larger-than-life personality, longs to be a D.J. Look for an actor who will have no problem making this role his own, creating a quirky radio personality with a unique sense of style. While this actor will primarily stay as Jack throughout, there are opportunities to join ensemble numbers such as “Stick to the Status Quo” and “Get’cha Head in the Game.”
DRUM MAJOR, who cheers on the Wildcats.
MS. TENNY, East High’s chemistry teacher.
MODERATOR, for the Science Decathlon (can be double cast as Ms. Tenny)
Sides
SIDE 1 ~ Gabriella and Troy
GABRIELLA
How crazy was that?!? Wow, so this is your private hideout?
TROY
Thanks to the Horticulture Club. I come up here when I want to be alone.
GABRIELLA
Must be tricky being the coach's son.
TROY
He's gonna freak when he hears about the singing thing.
GABRIELLA
You're worried?
TROY
Sometimes I don't want to be "the basketball guy." I just want to be, you know, me.
GABRIELLA
I know what you mean. At my other schools I was always "the freaky math girl." I hated it.
TROY
But you can't let people stop you from doing what you want to do, right?
GABRIELLA
Remember how cool kindergarten was? You'd meet somebody, and ten minutes later you were best friends.
TROY
Yeah, they didn't care if you could shoot hoops or solve equations.
GABRIELLA
Right. So you really want to do the callbacks?
TROY
Hey, just call me "freaky callback boy."
GABRIELLA
Thanks for showing me your top-secret hiding place. Just like kindergarten.
TROY
Be your best friend.
SIDE 2 ~ Kelsi and Sharpay
(KELSI bumps awkwardly into SHARPAY.)
KELSI
Oh, sorry... new glasses. Anyway, I mean... if you do the part, with that particular song, I was hoping you'd-
SHARPAY
If we do the part? Kelsi... Kelsi darling, I've been in seventeen school productions. And, let's see, how many shows have you written?
KELSI
This is the first.
SHARPAY
Which tells us that...?
KELSI
You are the more powerful witch?
SHARPAY
It tells us that you do not offer direction, suggestion, or commentary. Are we clear?
KELSI
Yes, sir I mean, Sharpay.
SHARPAY
Nice talking to you. Love the glasses.
SIDE 3 ~ Ryan and Sharpay
SHARPAY
Is this some kind of sick joke? They didn't even audition! Someone's got to tell that new girl the rules.
RYAN
Right. Rule Number One:
(SHARPAY lays down the Five Rules of Successful Cliquedom, as if the whole school were listening:)
SHARPAY
Pick the right clique.
RYAN
Two:
SHARPAY
Act like your clique.
RYAN
Three:
SHARPAY
Dress for your clique.
RYAN
Four:
SHARPAY
Know where your clique clicks.
RYAN
And Rule Number Five:
SHARPAY
Stick to the status quo!
SIDE 4 ~ Coach Bolton and Ms. Darbus
COACH BOLTON
Where's my team, Darbus?! And what the heck are they doing here?!?
MS. DARBUS
I run my detention my way; you can run yours your way.
COACH BOLTON
(points to TROY and CHAD)
You two, into the gym, right now.
(TROY and CHAD run out.)
MS. DARBUS
(to STUDENTS)
Detention is over for today. I expect to see some of you tomorrow afternoon at the auditions. Please remember to be on time. Scoot, now. You've all done wonderfully!
(The STUDENTS pull their phones from the bucket and exit. SHARPAY lags behind to eavesdrop.)
COACH BOLTON
(to MS. DARBUS)
I need my star players in practice, not detention!
MS. DARBUS
Why should athletes get preferential treatment?
COACH BOLTON
I'm trying to teach these kids about having a goal, about teamwork, something they can use as adults.
MS. DARBUS
Which is precisely what I am trying to do.
COACH BOLTON
How, by making them scream at the top of their lungs?!?
MS. DARBUS
Philistine!
COACH BOLTON
Drama queen!
GABRIELLA
How crazy was that?!? Wow, so this is your private hideout?
TROY
Thanks to the Horticulture Club. I come up here when I want to be alone.
GABRIELLA
Must be tricky being the coach's son.
TROY
He's gonna freak when he hears about the singing thing.
GABRIELLA
You're worried?
TROY
Sometimes I don't want to be "the basketball guy." I just want to be, you know, me.
GABRIELLA
I know what you mean. At my other schools I was always "the freaky math girl." I hated it.
TROY
But you can't let people stop you from doing what you want to do, right?
GABRIELLA
Remember how cool kindergarten was? You'd meet somebody, and ten minutes later you were best friends.
TROY
Yeah, they didn't care if you could shoot hoops or solve equations.
GABRIELLA
Right. So you really want to do the callbacks?
TROY
Hey, just call me "freaky callback boy."
GABRIELLA
Thanks for showing me your top-secret hiding place. Just like kindergarten.
TROY
Be your best friend.
SIDE 2 ~ Kelsi and Sharpay
(KELSI bumps awkwardly into SHARPAY.)
KELSI
Oh, sorry... new glasses. Anyway, I mean... if you do the part, with that particular song, I was hoping you'd-
SHARPAY
If we do the part? Kelsi... Kelsi darling, I've been in seventeen school productions. And, let's see, how many shows have you written?
KELSI
This is the first.
SHARPAY
Which tells us that...?
KELSI
You are the more powerful witch?
SHARPAY
It tells us that you do not offer direction, suggestion, or commentary. Are we clear?
KELSI
Yes, sir I mean, Sharpay.
SHARPAY
Nice talking to you. Love the glasses.
SIDE 3 ~ Ryan and Sharpay
SHARPAY
Is this some kind of sick joke? They didn't even audition! Someone's got to tell that new girl the rules.
RYAN
Right. Rule Number One:
(SHARPAY lays down the Five Rules of Successful Cliquedom, as if the whole school were listening:)
SHARPAY
Pick the right clique.
RYAN
Two:
SHARPAY
Act like your clique.
RYAN
Three:
SHARPAY
Dress for your clique.
RYAN
Four:
SHARPAY
Know where your clique clicks.
RYAN
And Rule Number Five:
SHARPAY
Stick to the status quo!
SIDE 4 ~ Coach Bolton and Ms. Darbus
COACH BOLTON
Where's my team, Darbus?! And what the heck are they doing here?!?
MS. DARBUS
I run my detention my way; you can run yours your way.
COACH BOLTON
(points to TROY and CHAD)
You two, into the gym, right now.
(TROY and CHAD run out.)
MS. DARBUS
(to STUDENTS)
Detention is over for today. I expect to see some of you tomorrow afternoon at the auditions. Please remember to be on time. Scoot, now. You've all done wonderfully!
(The STUDENTS pull their phones from the bucket and exit. SHARPAY lags behind to eavesdrop.)
COACH BOLTON
(to MS. DARBUS)
I need my star players in practice, not detention!
MS. DARBUS
Why should athletes get preferential treatment?
COACH BOLTON
I'm trying to teach these kids about having a goal, about teamwork, something they can use as adults.
MS. DARBUS
Which is precisely what I am trying to do.
COACH BOLTON
How, by making them scream at the top of their lungs?!?
MS. DARBUS
Philistine!
COACH BOLTON
Drama queen!
Songs
Please select one to sing.
Gabriella and Troy
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Sharpay and Ryan
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All other characters please prepare the chorus of this song.
