With a little magic and a lot of hard work, Latin fifth graders brought their own version of Freaky Friday to the stage on March 9, entertaining the lower school, parents and teachers.

The play depicted a math teacher and student with differing priorities and difficulty understanding one another. However, when the two share a fortune cookie and mysteriously switch bodies, the characters learn to see the world through one another’s eyes.

From creating props to backdrops to costumes, the fifth graders were involved in every aspect of the production. They found that working toward a common goal had many rewards.

“It was a close-knit, bonding experience from day one to the performance,” said fifth grader Rohan Pavuluri.

“It was a great team effort, and the turnout was great,” said Emily Salzman, also a fifth grader.

Music throughout the show included several popular songs whose lyrics were changed to fit with the story. The assembly’s final song paid special tribute to music teacher Janet Underhill, who will be retiring in June after 31 years at Latin. Underhill was instrumental in helping the students to make the show a success, and students presented her with special gifts at the conclusion of the performance.

“It is always such a joy to work with the fifth graders,” Underhill said.

© 2008 The Latin School of Chicago

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