The limit does not exist for how much entertainment ‘Mean Girls’ the musical brings

The Plastics made their way from North Shore High to the Citizens Bank Opera House as the musical “Mean Girls,” based off the film of the same name, on Jan. 29.

“Mean Girls” the musical is based off the 2004 movie starring Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams and Tina Fey about how the school’s most popular clique of girls teach a new student from Africa how to use beauty and intimidation to rule those around them.

While there are many elements that go into a musical, what made this particular production stand out is the talented cast, especially Danielle Wade in the role of Cady Heron, Mariah Rose Faith in the role of Regina George and Mary Kate Morrisey in the role of Janis Sarkisian, as their refined voices brought out the best in every tune. Despite the complicated songs and energetic choreography, these three women never failed to miss a note.

While the movie focuses on Cady and Regina, the lesser known roles stole the show last Wednesday. Between flambouyant dance numbers and snarky jokes, Damien Hubbard (Eric Huffmanstole) acted as the show’s comedic relief. Gretchen Weiners (Megan Masako) also made an impact with her killer vocals and overall message that she felt unseen and unworthy, as so many teenagers do.

Certain changes in the storyline made the characters more realistic than ever, such as Janis explaining she has lost her best friend twice when she feels Cady chooses the popular girls over her. There is even a scene that shows the good side of Regina when she makes sure Cady doesn’t blame herself for Regina getting struck by a bus, whereas in the movie she simply jokes about it.

The song “What’s Wrong With Me” repeated throughout the show, with reprises by Gretchen and Mrs. George (Gaelen Gilliand), were captivating. The heartful tune displays both character’s eagerness to please Regina and how much they rely on her to know who they are themselves, allowing the audience to sympathize with the characters in the musical more than the film.

The crowd’s favorite song was “Sexy,” where Karen Smith (Jonalyn Saxer) hilariously describes all of the risque costumes girls can choose to be on Halloween, like a ballet dancer or pirate.

It is hard to imagine watching Lohan and McAdams suddenly breaking out into song and dance in the film, but the ensemble naturally used the numbers to create smooth transitions and move the story along steadily.

The musical’s ending however, differed from the iconic movie in one major way. Instead of Cady reuniting with Aaron Samuels (Adante Carter) at the school dance as “Mean Girls” fans will remember fondly from the movie, in the stage adaptation Aaron surprises Cady in the school’s mascot uniform at her mathlete competition.

The musical used social media and current phone technology to modernize the script, showing off Cady’s Instagram account instead of her flip phone. Yet, they also incorporated everyday classroom props such as school desks, whiteboards and cafeteria trays.

“Mean Girls” will play at the Citizens Bank Opera House until Feb. 9.