The Winchester-based school is set to be transformed into East High as the school’s year 8 pupils prepare to stage an adaptation of the Disney movie High School Musical.
Waihi School music teacher Sheryl Bradley said an end of year musical was part of the school’s curriculum.
"We’re three year 8 classes this year and they’re all participating.
"It’s a nice way to finish off the year with all the students coming together.
"Waihi is very big on the cultural side of things, the students have had a little bit of a taste of it with brotherhood and house singing — but to to get up on stage with the lighting, sound and the costumes is a wee bit different."
"We’ve heard from students that have carried it on when they’ve gone to high school, that they never ever would have thought that they would have done drama.
"They said they loved their time here taking part in the shows and it really sparked something in them to carry on."
She said High School Musical had been highly requested by the pupils.
"They were always keen and kept asking us to do it."
Auditions were held at the end of term two, with all the rehearsals being done in school time.
"There will be lots of singing and dancing, there are lots of iconic songs in this one.
"A lot of kids and young adults grew up watching High School Musical, so hopefully it will bring back all those memories.
"For parents I’m sure it will be a joy seeing their child up on stage."
The show opens on Monday, November 25 and will run each night at 7pm until Thursday, November 28.
Adult tickets are $22.50 and children 17 and under are $17.40.
Tickets can be purchased from iTicket or by calling the school office.
