The stage is set at Mercer Island High School as rehearsals wrap up for this fall’s musical, Mean Girls. For months, students have been working every day after school and a few long weekends — perfecting songs, rehearsing choreography, running lines, building sets, and working tech. Now, it’s time to share it with the community.
Director Katy Ramsey says the show captures both the fun and the challenges of high school life.
“At its heart, Mean Girls reflects how difficult it is to navigate ‘Girlworld,’” Ramsey says, pointing to Rosalind Wiseman’s book that inspired the original film. “High school has its academic challenges, but the true challenges lie in a complex social system with its own ever-shifting rules. Our production seeks to uplift that struggle and at the same time laugh at the absurdity of high school.”
Why Theatre Matters
Although Mean Girls is famous for its sharp humor and iconic one-liners, Ramsey emphasizes that the process of putting on a show is about much more than the story on stage.
“Theatre is a safe space,” she explains. “Our department’s motto is ‘Creativity is our passion. Inclusion is our philosophy. Diversity is our strength. Drama is our language.’ The basic shape of theatre is the circle. Every single person on a production is vital to maintaining that shape; no one is on top. We are only as strong as our weakest link.”
That philosophy shows up in every part of the production. Students take on lead roles, ensemble work, tech crew, lights, and sound. Parent and community volunteers also pitch in to raise funds and support the show. Ramsey says everyone’s contribution matters equally.
A Gift for the Community
More than anything, Ramsey hopes the Mercer Island community will see the show as a gift.
“What we do in theatre is come together to create a gift for our community,” she says. “These students—cast and crew—get together every single day for three months to create a vibrant, professional show in order to communicate something they believe in, something they feel has value for this current moment. They would love it if you would come and receive the gift they prepared for you.”
Show Details
Mean Girls: High School Version opens Thursday, November 13, 2025 and runs for two weekends: November 13–15 and November 20–22 at the MIHS Performing Arts Center. Evening shows begin at 7 p.m., with Saturday matinees November 15 and 22 at 2 p.m.
Audiences can expect big musical numbers, quick humor, and the kind of energy only a high school cast can bring. And while the story pokes fun at cliques, it also points to something deeper—the value of being yourself and finding true friends who accept you for who you are.
Content warning: The production includes references to bullying, peer pressure, and mature themes. Recommended for ages 13 and up. Viewer discretion advised.
What we do in theatre is come together to create a gift for our community,” “These students—cast and crew—get together every single day for three months to create a vibrant, professional show for this current moment”. - Director Katy Ramsey