JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- When new Alhambra owner Craig Smith sent director Tod Booth to New York City to cast his first show as the new owner of the Alhambra Theatre, he had no idea Tod would find such remarkable talent lined up to perform in a small theater in Jacksonville.

He certainly didn’t expect to recruit a cast with Broadway experience. Now, after three weeks of rehearsals and a quick-change from the Christmas Carole set to the new set, The Alhambra Theatre and Dining opens its first full season under new ownership this week with Disney’s smash hit, High School Musical On Stage.

“Disney’s High School Musical On Stage is a high-energy, entertaining show, and we felt this would be a fun way to kick things off for the new' Alhambra,” said Craig Smith, who is managing partner of the investment group. “The actors we have for this cast are fantastic. I really had no idea what to expect when we went to audition for this play, but this group of performers have gotten me so excited. I know our audience is going to love it. It’s a perfect way to open the 2010 season.”

The wildly successful original version of High School Musical was a Disney Channel made for TV movie that follows Troy, the popular high school basketball star, and Gabriella, the shy bookworm, who discover their shared passion for singing. When they both try out for the lead roles in East High’s school musical, it sends their peers into a tizzy.

The “jocks” and the “brainiacs” hatch plots to keep the two from sharing the stage in an attempt to restore order to the social cliques. Troy and Gabriella’s defiance of socially accepted norms inspires other students to step forward with their own hidden talents.

Tonight at the Alhambra, High School Musical will come to life on stage. On the front steps of East High, it’s the first day after winter break. The Jocks, the Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the New Year. Featuring Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay and the rest of the cast, the story takes a few different twists from the original, but features its favorite songs, including among others, “Wildcat Cheer,” “We’re All In This Together,” and “Get’chya Head in the Game.”

For his 24th season, producer/drector Tod Booth guides the cast as the Alhambra kicks off its 2010 lineup. As he will for each new show, executive chef Matthew Medure will debut new menu items consistent with the show’s theme. And the “new” Alhambra will sparkle with even a few more new upgrades, including new lighting and sound in the theatre.

“This show is really a love story with upbeat music and dancing and a happy ending,” stated Tod Booth. “It’s great for families, and it’s also a great show for those looking for an upbeat story with great casting and wonderful music. It’s entertaining and lively and that’s what the Alhambra is all about.”

The show opens today and will run through March 7. Show times are 8 p.m. for evening shows Tuesday through Sunday. Doors open at 6 p.m., the buffet starts at 6:30. Matinees on Saturday are at 1:15. Doors open at 11 and the buffet starts at 11:15. Sunday matinee is at 2. Doors open at noon and the buffet starts at 12:15.

Tickets start at $42 and include dinner and the show.